An unpleasant odor from the penis can indicate various underlying conditions, including gonorrhea, urethritis, fungal infections, chlamydia, or urinary tract infections (UTIs).
1. Odor caused by smegma
.Smegma is a buildup of dead skin cells, natural oils, and other substances around the penis, especially in men who are not circumcised. This issue is particularly common in uncircumcised men.
While smegma plays a protective and lubricating role for the penis, excessive buildup caused by sweating or inadequate hygiene can lead to white patches with a foul smell. This environment promotes bacterial growth, potentially leading to inflammation or infection.
2. Odor due to urinary tract infections (UTIs)
A urinary tract infection (UTI) happens when bacteria or viruses infect the urinary tract, causing an unpleasant odor from the penis Additional symptoms of a UTI include:
- Cloudy or pink-tinged urine;
- A burning sensation during urination;
- Frequent urination, even when little urine is produced.
Men who are uncircumcised are at a higher risk of developing UTIs. If left untreated, urethral infections can lead to complications like kidney infections.
3. Odor caused by fungal infections
A fungal infection, like an overgrowth of Candida yeast, can cause a bad smell in the genital area. Other symptoms may include:
- Itching and burning sensations;
- Redness and irritation;
- Moist, unusually shiny, or white skin on the penis.
These infections are commonly caused by poor hygiene, particularly in uncircumcised men. During sexual activity, a yeast infection may be transmitted to a female partner. Without timely treatment, the condition can escalate to severe inflammation or infection.
4. Odor caused by gonorrhea
Gonorrhea is a sexually transmitted infection (STI) that spreads through sex with an infected partner, including vaginal, anal, or oral contact. The condition can cause the penis to produce a foul-smelling discharge, and it may also affect the rectum and throat.
While symptoms of gonorrhea are often mild, potential warning signs include:
- A burning sensation during urination;
- Green, yellow, or white discharge from the penis;
- Itching, soreness, or bleeding around the genitals or anus.
5. Odor caused by chlamydia
Chlamydia is another common STI that spreads through unprotected sex, including vaginal, oral, or anal contact. It can cause the penis to develop an unpleasant odor, along with symptoms such as:
- Testicular pain or swelling;
- Painful or frequent urination.
Chlamydia symptoms are often subtle. If left untreated, the infection can result in fertility issues for both the patient and their partner.
6. Non-gonococcal urethritis
Non-gonococcal urethritis is when the urethra becomes inflamed due to causes other than gonorrhea, often from bacteria like chlamydia. It is often triggered by bacterial infections, particularly Chlamydia trachomatis.
Symptoms of non-gonococcal urethritis include:
- Foul-smelling discharge from the penis;
- A burning sensation during urination;
- Pain or irritation at the tip of the penis.
Untreated non-gonococcal urethritis may lead to complications affecting the testicles or prostate, potentially resulting in infertility in men.
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