First the Facts

• Balanitis is a condition which can cause inflammation of the end of the penis
• The penis may appear red and feel sore
• It is usually caused by poor hygiene, infection, allergy or skin irritants
• Treatment is based on the underlying cause

What Causes Balanitis?

• Possible causes of balanitis are:
  • A build-up of yeast infection, urine, sweat or other debris under the foreskin
  • An allergic reaction to a soap, washing powder or washing products
  • An allergy to condoms
  • Phimosis – a condition where the foreskin is tight and does not pull back over the glans
  • Sexually transmitted infection
• It is common and can occur at any age. It is more common under 4 years of age, and in those who are uncircumcised.

How Will I Know If I Have Balanitis?

• The penis will appear red and inflamed.
• In some cases, the cause can be diagnosed by the appearance of the penis. For example, the inflammation caused by yeast build-up looks quite typical.

How Can I Protect Myself?

• Washing the penis each day with water and a bland soap, this includes pulling the foreskin back whilst washing
• Make sure the penis is dry before putting on underwear
• Identifying and not using certain allergens or irritants will help in cases caused by allergy
• Condom use can help to protect against sexually transmitted infections (STIs)

Where and When Can I Get a Test?

• If the doctor is not able to diagnose the cause of balanitis by the appearance of the penis, then a further test may be needed
• A swab (small cotton bud) may be used to take a sample from the tip of the penis to test for bacteria or yeast
• A test for diabetes may be needed if this underlying condition is suspected
• An STI test might be needed (swab or urine test)
• Rarely, a biopsy (a small sample of tissue) might be needed if the appearances are unusual or do not respond to treatment

What Happens If I Have Balanitis?

• The following advice is relevant for balanitis regardless of the cause:
  • Avoid soap when inflammation is present
  • Emollients (moisturising cream or ointment) can be used to wash in place of soap
  • Use warm water to clean the penis and dry gently
• Treatment is dependent on the underlying cause:
  • Yeast infection is treated by anti-yeast cream or tablets
  • Antibiotics are used if the cause is bacterial (including certain STIs)
  • A steroid cream can help reduce inflammation caused by allergies or irritants
• In severe cases, or cases that do not respond to treatment, circumcision (surgical removal of the foreskin) might be recommended

Written by: Dr Nikki Kersey and Dr Paula Briggs
Last updated: January 2021