Summary White penile discharge can indicate a deeper health problem. It can be caused by urinary tract infections (UTIs), sexually transmitted diseases (STDs), and other disorders like balanitis and prostatitis. Leaving abnormal penile discharge unaddressed can lead to serious health complications, so it’s vital to seek a diagnosis and medical care as soon as possible.
Causes of white discharge in men
Urinary tract infections Sexually transmitted diseases (STDs)
Chlamydia and gonorrhea Trichomoniasis Mycoplasma genitalium
Balanitis Prostatitis
The risks of leaving abnormal penile discharge unaddressed When to seek medical care for penile discharge How to find out if an STD is causing your discharge
Have you ever wondered what white discharge in men means? While it’s not uncommon for men to experience some type of discharge, it can still be concerning when it’s a different color. In this article, we’ll discuss what it means if a man has white discharge and what you should do if you’re experiencing it.
Contents
Is it normal for a man to have white discharge?
Quick facts:
Discharge from the penis is usually a sign of infection. Some of these infections can be serious and may cause problems later in life if they are not treated.
If you are concerned about any discharge from the penis or have any other health concerns, you should see your doctor or sexual health clinic. The urethra is the narrow small tube that passes from the bladder through the penis, allowing for the passage of urine.
Ejaculate fluid (cum) passes through the urethra before and during ejaculation. This ejaculate fluid contains sperm produced in the testes and seminal fluid produced in a number of parts of the reproductive system including the prostate. There are small glands in the surface of the head of the penis which produce a cheesy white material called smegma.
This may accumulate under an uncircumcised foreskin. This is normal if there is no pain or unpleasant odour. Good hygiene ensures there is no build-up of bacteria so washing the area regularly is advised. There can also be clear fluid that may drip from the penis when sexually excited (pre-cum).
Urethritis Gonorrhoea Chlamydia Non-specific urethritis Acute prostatitis Infection under the foreskin of uncircumcised penises Warts at the opening of the urethra Herpes simplex virus ulcer at the opening of the urethra Something inserted into the urethra.
Skin irritation such as itchiness, redness, swelling, soreness, or other symptoms on or around the skin of the penis can also be caused by a fungal infection, psoriasis, or contact with soap or other substances. Some people may be allergic to latex in condoms and alternative condom products are available.
Can a man have a discharge and not have a STD?
People who notice penile discharge may worry that they have a sexually transmitted disease (STD). However, STDs are not the only possible cause of discharge from the penis. The penis may secrete discharge for several reasons. If it is likely that penile discharge is due to an STD, then it is important to seek treatment.
Most STDs are highly treatable, and treatment prevents severe complications. Male discharge that has a non-STD cause may be a variation of normal discharge, or it could be a sign of an infection that requires treatment. In this article, we look at the non-STD causes of penile discharge and explain when to see a doctor.
Pre-ejaculate is fluid that comes out of the penis during arousal. People also refer to it as ‘precum.’ The Cowper’s glands make pre-ejaculate, which exits the penis in the same way as semen and urine. In most cases, there are only a few drops of pre-ejaculate, so some individuals may not notice it at all.
- A 2010 study found that some men have sperm in their pre-ejaculate, while others do not.
- In most cases, the volume of sperm is low.
- There is still a chance that pre-ejaculate entering a vagina could result in pregnancy, so men who do not wish their partner to become pregnant should wear a condom even before having sex.
Learn more about pre-ejaculate and pregnancy here, A urinary tract infection (UTI) occurs when harmful bacteria infect part of the urinary tract. The urinary tract comprises the:
bladderprostatekidneysurethraureters
UTIs are rare in males younger than 50 years of age, and the risk increases as they get older. Males with UTIs may find urination very painful or be unable to empty their bladder fully. Some may experience incontinence or a frequent urge to urinate. There may be discharge from the penis that is white or frothy, and in some cases, there may also be blood in the urine,
A UTI is a bacterial infection. Most of the time, antibiotics will be necessary to treat the infection. A doctor must prescribe the right type of antibiotics to kill the bacteria, so people should avoid self-medicating or using old antibiotics. Balanitis is inflammation of the head of the penis. This common infection affects 3–11% of males at some point during their lifetime.
Anything that irritates the foreskin or head of the penis, including harsh soaps and other chemicals, can cause balanitis. Two other conditions that are similar to balanitis include posthitis, which is foreskin inflammation, and balanoposthitis, which is inflammation of both the foreskin and the head of the penis.
Balanitis may cause swelling or itching on the head of the penis. A person may also notice discharge under the foreskin or on the head of the penis. Fungal infections are the most common cause of balanitis. Diabetes is a risk factor for fungal infections, so balanitis may be more common among those living with this condition.
The type of treatment will depend on the cause of the infection. For example, if a fungal infection is the cause of balanitis, a doctor may prescribe an antifungal drug. Sometimes, penile discharge can occur as a result of hygiene or self-care issues, such as using an unclean catheter or not receiving appropriate help bathing in a nursing home.
prostate paindifficulty urinatingdischarge from the penis
Prostatitis happens when the prostate becomes inflamed and irritated, which is sometimes due to a bacterial infection. Prostatitis can be acute or chronic, Chronic prostatitis can develop due to a problem with the immune system or following damage to the prostate or surrounding nerves.
The right treatment depends on whether prostatitis is acute or chronic. Antibiotics can usually treat acute prostatitis, while chronic prostatitis is more challenging to treat. A combination of medications, as well as home remedies such as sitz baths, may help. Sometimes, surgery is necessary to correct an underlying problem with the prostate or reproductive system.
Smegma is a combination of dead skin cells, water, and the skin oil sebum. It is usually white or yellow. Smegma lubricates the head of the penis, helping prevent pain from friction, especially during sexual activity. Smegma also contains bacteria. Usually, these bacteria are healthy and beneficial, but harmful bacteria sometimes grow out of control in smegma.
- An overgrowth of unhealthy bacteria can cause a bad smell and may play a role in certain infections, including UTIs.
- Uncircumcised men tend to have more noticeable smegma because the foreskin traps it under the head of the penis.
- Although smegma is not dirty or harmful, many people prefer to rinse it away periodically.
Share on Pinterest A person should talk to a doctor if they have pain when urinating, having sex, or bathing. Not all male discharge is a sign of a problem. Sometimes, it appears due to the temporary production of more smegma or pre-ejaculate. In other cases, an individual might simply notice the discharge more, perhaps because they are paying closer attention to their penis or suddenly feeling self-conscious.
discharge that is not from pre-ejaculate or ejaculatepain when urinating, having sex, or bathingswelling on or around the penisa foul smell coming from the penisa fever or other signs of infection, such as feeling nauseated
Even if these symptoms are not present, talking to a doctor about normal discharge can be reassuring. A doctor can help identify what is and is not normal. Male discharge is normal, healthy, and may even make sex more comfortable. Quite often, if no other symptoms occur alongside the discharge, there may be no cause for concern.
What STD is white discharge in men?
Penile discharge is any substance that comes out of the penis that’s neither urine nor semen. This discharge usually comes out of the urethra, which runs through the penis and exits at the head. It might be white and thick or clear and watery, depending on the underlying cause.
While penile discharge is a common symptom of many sexually transmitted diseases (STDs), including gonorrhea and chlamydia, other things can cause it as well. Most of them aren’t serious, but they do usually require medical treatment. Read on to learn about what might be causing your discharge and how to be completely sure it’s not a sign of an STD.
People usually associate urinary tract infections (UTIs) with females, but males can get them, too. There are different types of UTIs, depending on where the infection is. In males, a type of UTI called urethritis can cause discharge. Urethritis refers to inflammation of the urethra.
painburning when urinatingfrequent urge to urinateitchingtenderness
An STD other than gonorrhea may cause NGU. But other infections, irritation, or injuries can also cause it. Some potential non-STD causes of NGU include:
adenovirus, a virus that can cause gastroenteritis, pinkeye, and sore throatbacterial infectionirritation from a product, such as soap, deodorant, or detergentdamage to the urethra from a catheterdamage to the urethra from intercourse or masturbationgenital injuries
The prostate is a walnut-shaped gland that surrounds the urethra. It’s responsible for making prostatic fluid, a component of semen. Prostatitis refers to inflammation of this gland. The inflammation may be the result of an infection in or injury to the prostate. In other cases, there’s no clear cause. Possible symptoms of prostatitis include discharge and:
painfoul-smelling urineblood in the urinedifficulty urinatinga weak or interrupted urine streampain when ejaculatingdifficulty ejaculating
In some cases, prostatitis resolves on its own or with treatment within a few days or weeks. This type of prostatitis is known as acute prostatitis. But chronic prostatitis sticks around for at least three months and often doesn’t go away with treatment.
Treatment may help relieve symptoms, though. Smegma is a buildup of a thick, white substance under the foreskin of an uncircumcised penis. It’s made up of skin cells, oils, and fluids. Smegma isn’t actually discharge, but it looks very similar. All of the fluids and components of smegma naturally occur on your body.
They help keep the area hydrated and lubricated. But if you don’t regularly wash your genital region, it can start to build up and cause discomfort. Learn how to properly remove smegma. Smegma also helps create a moist, warm environment. This can increase your risk for a fungal or bacterial infection.
redness around the glans and under the foreskintightening of foreskinodordiscomfort or itchinesspain in the genital area
Several things can cause balanitis, including:
skin conditions, such as eczema fungal infectionsbacterial infectionsirritation from soaps and other products
If you’ve ever had any type of sexual contact, it’s important to rule out an STD as a potential cause of your discharge. This can be done with simple urine and blood tests, Gonorrhea and chlamydia are two of the most common causes of penile discharge.
They require treatment with prescription antibiotics. Keep in mind that STDs don’t just result from penetrative intercourse. You can contract an STD by receiving oral sex and engaging in nonintercourse activities. And some STDs don’t cause symptoms immediately. This means you could still have an STD, even if you haven’t had any sexual contact in months.
Left untreated, STDs can cause long-term complications, so it’s important to treat them. This also reduces your risk for transmitting an infection to others. While penile discharge is often a symptom of an STD, other things can cause it, too. Regardless of the cause, it’s best to follow up with a doctor to diagnose and treat any underlying conditions, especially bacterial infections.
Why does my boyfriend have discharge?
Male discharge is any fluid that comes from the urethra other than urine. The urethra is a narrow tube that carries urine from the bladder and semen from the ejaculatory ducts. These fluids travel along the urethra before exiting the body at the urethral opening in the tip of the penis.
Some types of discharge are natural and help protect or lubricate the penis. Others may occur as a result of an underlying health condition. These may be accompanied by symptoms such as pain, irritation, or an unpleasant smell. This article describes the types of penile discharge that doctors consider normal and those they consider to be abnormal.
We outline the symptoms associated with each and provide information on when to see a doctor. Normal discharge includes preejaculate and ejaculate. These are released from the tip of the penis during sexual arousal and intercourse. Although not strictly penile discharge, smegma is another substance that may build up around the head of the penis.
Is male discharge bad?
Sexually transmitted illnesses (STIs) – A variety of STDs can cause penile discharges. Some include:
- Chlamydia. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention ( CDC ) notes that chlamydia, which is caused by bacteria, is the number-one STI reported in the United States. Only 10 percent of men (and even fewer women) with documented cases have symptoms, says the CDC. When symptoms in men are present, they can include:
- urethritis
- watery or mucus-like discharge from the tip of the penis
- pain or swelling in the testicles
- Gonorrhea. Another common and frequently transmitted STI that may have no symptoms is gonorrhea. Men with gonorrhea may experience:
- whitish, yellowish, or even greenish fluid coming from the tip of the penis
- pain when urinating
- swollen testicles
When to see the doctor If you have discharge from your penis that is not urine, pre-ejaculate, or ejaculate, see your doctor. You may have a condition that needs treatment. Any penile discharge that is not urine or related to sexual arousal (pre-ejaculate or ejaculate) is considered abnormal and needs medical evaluation. Your doctor will:
- take your medical and sexual history
- ask about your symptoms
- examine your penis
- use a cotton swab to acquire some discharge, and send the sample out to a lab for analysis
Treatment will depend on what’s causing the penile discharge.
- Bacterial infections are treated with antibiotics.
- Fungal infections, such as those that result from yeast, are combated with antifungals.
- Allergic irritation can be calmed with steroids.
Penile discharge that occurs with sexual arousal or intercourse is normal. This discharge is generally clear and not associated with pain or discomfort. Get checked out by a doctor, however, if:
- your penis is red or irritated
- you have a discharge that is oozing, discolored, or foul smelling
- you have any discharge that occurs without sexual activity
This discharge could be the sign of an STI, allergic reaction, or UTI, and will need medical treatment.
Is discharge healthy for men?
What is penile discharge? – Penile discharge is considered to be any substance that comes out of the penis that isn’t urine. Some types of discharge, such as ejaculate, which occurs during orgasm, and pre-ejaculatory fluid, which occurs during sexual stimulation before climax, are both considered normal and are nothing to worry about.
What color is STD discharge male?
STDs – There are a variety of STDs that cause male discharge, including chlamydia and gonorrhea. With chlamydia, male discharge may look watery or mucous-like, coming from the tip of the penis. Male discharge caused by gonorrhea may be white, yellow or green in colour.
What does gonorrhea look like?
Symptoms of gonorrhoea – Typical symptoms of gonorrhoea include a thick green or yellow discharge from the vagina or penis, pain when peeing and, in women, bleeding between periods, But around 1 in 10 infected men and almost half of infected women do not experience any symptoms.
Do men get white infection?
Can men get yeast infections? What are the signs and symptoms of a male yeast infection? – Answer From Patricio C. Gargollo, M.D. Yes, men can get yeast infections, too, which can lead to a condition known as balanitis — inflammation of the head of the penis.
Yeast infections in men are common because the fungus that causes yeast infections (candida) is normally present on skin, especially moist skin. When some contributing factor — such as having sex with a partner who has a vaginal yeast infection — causes an overgrowth of candida, infection can result.
Balanitis is more common in uncircumcised men. Signs and symptoms of balanitis may include:
- Moist skin on the penis, possibly with areas of a thick, white substance collecting in skin folds
- Areas of shiny, white skin on the penis
- Redness, itching or a burning sensation on the penis
You may be more likely to develop balanitis from a yeast infection if you:
- Aren’t circumcised
- Use antibiotics for prolonged periods
- Have diabetes
- Have an impaired immune system, such as with HIV
- Are overweight
- Practice poor hygiene
Most male yeast infections are easily treated with over-the-counter antifungal medications. With Patricio C. Gargollo, M.D.
Does chlamydia go away?
Is there a cure for chlamydia? – Yes, the right treatment can cure chlamydia, It is important that you take all of the medicine your healthcare provider gives you to cure your infection. Do not share medicine for chlamydia with anyone. When taken properly it will stop the infection and could decrease your chances of having problems later.
Is white discharge everyday normal?
Women who are menopausal normally have minimal vaginal discharge as a result of lower levels of estrogen. In women who are premenopausal, it is normal to have approximately one-half to one teaspoon (2 to 5 mL) of white or clear, thick, mucus-like, and mostly odorless vaginal discharge every day.
Does male discharge mean STD?
Debunking Myths about STDs and Penile Discharge – Source: familymedicineaustin.com There are many misconceptions about STDs and penile discharge. One common myth is that you can’t get an STD from oral or anal sex, which is untrue; any form of sexual contact can transmit. Another myth is that if you have an STD, you’ll know it.
Many STDs can be asymptomatic, meaning they show no symptoms. Regular testing is the only sure way to know if you have an STD. Also, people often believe that penile discharge always signifies, which is not always the case. While it often indicates an infection like gonorrhea or chlamydia, it could also be due to non-STD related infections.
Always consult a healthcare professional if you have any concerns.
Does male discharge smell?
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We do the research so you can find trusted products for your health and wellness. Semen, or seminal fluid, doesn’t always smell the same. Semen contains numerous substances that influence its smell, and your individual diet, hygiene, and sex life all play a part.
Why does semen smell like that? Certain foods can give it a sweet scent ( and taste! ). But eating or drinking acidic substances can make your semen smell foul. Some infections and conditions can influence its odor, too. Read on to learn why semen has such a distinct scent, when you should see your doctor about the smell, and how to improve your overall odor.
Semen normally smells like ammonia, bleach, or chlorine. Semen is about 1 percent sperm and 99 percent other compounds, enzymes, proteins, and minerals. Many of these substances are alkaline. This means that they’re above a 7 on the pH scale, which is measured from 0 (highly acidic) to 14 (highly alkaline).
magnesiumcalciumcopperzincsulfur
Overall, seminal fluid typically leans slightly alkaline. Anything between 7.2 and 8.0 is considered a healthy pH level. When your body’s pH levels are balanced, semen should smell like ammonia, bleach, or other alkaline substances. You might notice variations in this scent, especially after you have sex.
- The vagina leans toward the acidic side, with a typical pH level between 3.8 and 4.5,
- This acidic environment can interact with the substances in semen and temporarily alter the smell.
- Fishy, rotten, or foul-smelling semen isn’t normal.
- Eating certain foods — like asparagus, meats, and garlic — or drinking a lot of caffeine or alcohol can make your semen smell pungent.
Try limiting these foods to see if your semen smell returns to normal after a few days. If so, there’s nothing to be concerned about. If the smell persists, it could be a sign of a sexually transmitted infection (STI) or other underlying condition, such as:
Trichomoniasis. This infection can cause itching and burning, as well as smelly penile discharge. Gonorrhea. This bacterial infection can cause burning when you urinate, testicle swelling, and white, green, or yellow penile discharge. Prostatitis. This refers to inflammation of the prostate gland. It’s usually caused by a bacterial infection. Symptoms include pain when urinating, cloudy or bloody urine, pain during ejaculation, or having to urinate more often than usual.
See your doctor for diagnosis if you notice these symptoms along with foul-smelling semen. Curious to know when semen smells like? Take a whiff of Pyrus calleryana, a pear tree found throughout North America. As Vice reports, it’s well-known as the “semen tree.” When its flowers bloom during the spring, large amounts of organic chemicals called amines are released into the air.
What is normal male discharge time?
Introduction – There are many myths and exaggerated expectations when it comes to sexuality. That’s also true for the question of how long it takes men to reach orgasm during sex. That depends on many factors and can vary from time to time. Measured on a stopwatch, it takes an average of 5 to 7 minutes for a man to reach orgasm and ejaculate.
- But the overall range is wide, from less than one minute to over half an hour.
- There are also many differences in whether and how much a relatively early orgasm affects a man, his relationship and sexual satisfaction.
- In studies, men tend to overestimate the time it takes until ejaculation by a quarter to one half of the actual time.
So it isn’t a good idea to go by what others claim. About 4% of men have almost no control over when they ejaculate. They then always (or nearly always) “come” very early – that is, before or directly after penetration. If these early orgasms become distressful, the problem is medically diagnosed as premature ejaculation.
What does male discharge look like?
Discharge from Penis – What Does the Discharge Look Like? Discharge from the penis can be watery and clear, or opaque and cloudy. It may contain pus and/or blood and have an unpleasant odor. Penile discharge can vary in color, consistency, and amount: It can be thin or thick, and might be clear, white, yellow, or tinted red from the blood. The flow can be hardly noticeable to impossible to ignore.
What color discharge is bad for men?
STDs – There are a variety of STDs that cause male discharge, including chlamydia and gonorrhea. With chlamydia, male discharge may look watery or mucous-like, coming from the tip of the penis. Male discharge caused by gonorrhea may be white, yellow or green in colour.
