Balanitis is a common condition that can happen to males of any age. It is an inflammation of the glans at the head of the penis. It is neither serious nor contagious.

What causes balanitis and who can get it?

Balanitis is often caused by a bacterial or fungal infection. The bacteria or fungus find the warm and moist conditions found at the head of the penis to be an ideal breeding ground for growth. It is because of this that the condition slightly more common in uncircumcised men.

There are a number of factors that can lead to the development of balanitis.  These include:

• Poor personal hygiene – not cleaning the head of the penis correctly
• Phimosis – the inability to pull back the foreskin from the head of the penis
• Thrush – infection by the Candida fungus

Balanitis can happen to males of all ages. Good hygiene practices can often be enough to reduce the risk of getting the condition in most cases. However, this will not be true in cases of infection.

What are the signs and symptoms of balanitis?

When a male has balanitis the head of the penis will become red, swollen and sore. In some cases there will also be irritation and possibly a thick and lumpy discharge from the penis.

How is balanitis normally diagnosed and treated?

The condition is generally easily diagnosed by a simple visual inspection of the head of the penis. However, if a person is sexually active it is advisable to see a doctor to be sure that the symptoms are not the result of a sexually transmitted infection (STI)

In some cases, if thrush has caused balanitis, it may be recommended that sexual partners also see their doctor to rule out infection there too.

The treatment provided by a doctor will depend on the cause of balanitis. An antifungal cream may be prescribed or a course of antibiotics if the infection is bacterial.

Can it be prevented?

Practising good hygiene habits when washing the penis can help relieve symptoms, particularly when using warm salted water.

When should I seek medical help?

An appointment to see a health professional should be made when the penis becomes inflamed and sore. This will rule out possible STI and allow treatment of the condition to begin as soon as possible.

Looking forward

Balanitis is a common condition that is not serious. Once it has been treated there should be no further impact on the person’s health.

For more help and information

NHS Direct – Balanitis

Last reviewed by Great Ormond Street Hospital: 17 May 2008

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