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What are Different Types of Penile Diseases?

Erin J. Hill
Erin J. Hill

The most common types of penile diseases are sexually transmitted diseases which are spread through sexual intercourse with an infected partner. Penile cancer is a rare disease which can affect the glands of the penis. Sometimes additional dysfunctions can affect the penile region, and these can be caused by disease or other factors.

Penile diseases can include a wide range of ailments which directly impact the penis. Sexually transmitted diseases are the most common types of diseases affecting the penis. This includes several potential infections, including genital herpes, gonorrhea, or syphilis. They are spread through sexual intercourse, oral sexual activities, and sometimes anal sex. Symptoms may vary depending on the illness, but they often include discharge from the penis, soreness, swelling, redness, burning upon urination, and sometimes warts or bumps on or around the penis.

Condoms may offer protection against sexually transmitted disease.
Condoms may offer protection against sexually transmitted disease.

Most sexually transmitted diseases can be prevented through abstinence. Barrier method birth controls like condoms also offer protection against sexually transmitted diseases. Symptoms may not always appear right away or at all, so those who have been sexually active without using protection should be tested regularly. Diseases of this type can generally be diagnosed through blood tests.

Penile diseases are often caused by pathogens spread through sexual intercourse.
Penile diseases are often caused by pathogens spread through sexual intercourse.

Penile cancer is another type of penile disease. It is rare and is slightly more common in uncircumcised males than in circumcised ones. Treatment can include surgery, chemotherapy, or radiation. Penile cancer is an uncommon cause of death, but since it is uncommon, doctors may not automatically check for it when testing for the cause of various symptoms. This later detection could lead to a more difficult time treating the disease.

Most sexually transmitted diseases can be prevented through abstinence.
Most sexually transmitted diseases can be prevented through abstinence.

Occasionally, penile diseases can cause additional problems like erectile dysfunction and impotence. Sexually transmitted diseases as well as other factors can contribute to sexual issues. Various tests are generally needed to test for the underlying causes of sexual dysfunction. Both illness and psychological issues could be to blame.

Penile diseases can eventually spread to other areas of the body. Many sexually transmitted illnesses can infect other organs if they are left untreated for long periods of time. Most varieties can be treated or cured with early intervention and proper medication prescribed by a doctor. Some, such as genital herpes, cannot be cured but outbreaks can be prevented or lessened.

Discussion Comments

anon295278

I have a herniated disc. Could that be the cause of why I have been prematurely ejaculating? How can it be fixed?

anon279216

We need help. My husband is young, but just had a penectomy due to squamous cell cancer from warts. He still has the scrotum and an opening beneath the scrotum to void. He wants a penile transplant and needs a doctor who will do this for him. He was a very virile, sexually active man before this happened to him. I also understand that the scrotum can be stimulated as well. We are desperately for physical, emotional and sexual help.

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    • Condoms may offer protection against sexually transmitted disease.
      By: Gajus
      Condoms may offer protection against sexually transmitted disease.
    • Penile diseases are often caused by pathogens spread through sexual intercourse.
      By: nerthuz
      Penile diseases are often caused by pathogens spread through sexual intercourse.
    • Most sexually transmitted diseases can be prevented through abstinence.
      By: Anatoly Repin
      Most sexually transmitted diseases can be prevented through abstinence.
    • Symptoms of a penile disease may not be immediately present.
      By: vgstudio
      Symptoms of a penile disease may not be immediately present.
    • Antibiotics can be used to treat penile diseases that are bacterial in nature.
      By: sframe
      Antibiotics can be used to treat penile diseases that are bacterial in nature.