Rash on Penis

[john64663]

I have a condition that I have dealt with since approx 20 years old.  My penis develops an irritation when used.  In intercourse this does not usually happen (condom, couple of times per week), but in masturbatory use it is prevalent.  The part just below the head of the penis becomes inflamed and red for weeks, and itches for 12-18 hours after masturbation.  I typically use off the shelf lotion, and some types seem to burn if already inflamed.  It takes up to a month to completely heal if inflamed.  If I masturbate during the time it is inflamed then it aggravates it and continues to plague me.

It began about 8 years ago during a masturbatory session with a girlfriend using aloe lotion with lido cane.  We had used that lotion many times before, however this time I became irritated.  The problem has been relatively constant since then.  I have used many kinds of antibiotic and antifungal topical creams, some prescriptions.   None have seemed to make any difference at all.

I have had approx 6 doctors look at me over the years and have no conclusions.  I have intentionally inflamed the area prior to exam, had biopsys, etc to no avail.  I can sent a picture if necessary.  I just want to have this gone.

[john64663]

Thank you for the information.  I will reply so you have as much information as possible.

I currently wear 100% cotton briefs, not boxers.  I will change from over the counter lotion to a water based lubricant.  I will purchase and apply calamine lotion today.  I will also look into a mild steroid cream.

Is it common that this chafing acts the way I have described?  Here is the way it develops.  If I wait for a very long period of time then it will completely go away (1-2 months or so).  I can then masturbate 3 times a week or so without it returning.  If I increase the amount to 4-5 times a week then it will appear over the course of a few masturbatory sessions.  Then it takes a month to go away again, and any activity during that time re-inflames it.

[Bhupinder Kaur, MD]

Hello,
From the symptoms, one possibility that comes to my mind is of chafing or friction rub during masturbation. Chafing is a skin irritation caused by repeated rubbing like in masturbation. Wear clothing that serves as a barrier between layers of skin and during masturbation you can use a water based lubricant. Avoid coarse clothing and wear 100% cotton fabric against your skin and clothing that is free of moisture, dried sweat, chemicals, dirt and other debris.

Also apply calamine lotion on the skin that has already chafed. If the symptoms are sever then please apply a mild steroid cream on the rash. It is very difficult to precisely confirm a diagnosis without examination and investigations and the answer is based on the medical information provided. For exact diagnosis, you are requested to consult your dermatologist. I sincerely hope that helps. Take care and please do keep me posted on how you are doing.