Is it normal for a man to have discharge

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. 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.

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. Infections, inflammation, and other problems respond well to treatment, so there is no need to suffer or feel embarrassed. A healthcare provider can often treat abnormal discharge relatively quickly. In this article, we examine smegma and the best ways for both males and females to remove it. We also take a look at some genital hygiene tips.

Learn all about urinary tract infections in men, which are less frequent but can be more serious than UTIs in women. We look at symptoms and…. Premature ejaculation can significantly impact individuals' confidence.

Here we discuss causes and treatments - there are a number of options…. Balanitis is an inflammation of the glans, the head of the penis.

It can be caused by an infection or an allergic reaction. It is a common condition…. Prostatitis is an inflammation of the prostate that can cause pain, sexual dysfunction, and urination issues.

Chronic prostatitis might last for more…. Whilst penile discharge is a common side effect of a handful of STIs, other infections can also be the cause. The majority of causes are nothing to worry about and though medical treatment may sometimes be required, they can be curable. Prostatitis occurs when the prostate gland - the small gland located directly below the bladder in men, becomes swollen and inflamed [1]. It can occur in men of any age and it can sometimes prove difficult to know the underlying cause.

Are you experiencing pain while urinating or an increased urge to urinate? Urethritis might be the reason. Urethritis occurs when your urethra becomes inflamed. This may be experienced as a result of a bacterial infection, genital injuries, or irritation from soap or detergent amongst other things [2].

If the head of your penis is swollen and sore, it may be a result of balanitis; a type of yeast infection that can occur in all males, though is more common in uncircumcised men [3]. Chlamydia is the most commonly reported STI in the world in both men and women [4]. Only a few people with chlamydia actually develop signs and symptoms though if they do appear in men, they can include an unexpected discharge from the penis, painful urination and testicular pain.

Other symptoms can include an increased need to urinate and a pain in the penis or testicles [5]. Though if they do, an unusual drip or discharge from the penis, itching or burning during urination and a burning sensation inside the penis are some of the most common.

If you have a reason to suspect that you may have contracted an STI, take a test with your local doctor or opt to take a test from the comfort of your own home. Your online results will be available within a week along with prescription options for certain infections. Mayo Clinic Staff. Urethritis refers to inflammation of the urethra. Non-gonococcal urethritis NGU , on the other hand, refers to all other types of urethritis.

But other infections, irritation, or injuries can also cause it. The prostate is a walnut-shaped gland that surrounds the urethra. Prostatitis refers to inflammation of this gland. The inflammation may be the result of an infection in or injury to the prostate.

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.

Treatment may help relieve symptoms, though. Smegma is a buildup of a thick, white substance under the foreskin of an uncircumcised penis. All of the fluids and components of smegma naturally occur on your body. They help keep the area hydrated and lubricated. 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.

Balanitis is inflammation of the foreskin. It tends to happen in people with uncircumcised penises. This can be done with simple urine and blood tests.

Gonorrhea and chlamydia are two of the most common causes of penile discharge.