You wake up one day with irritations, swellings, or just some form of discomfort in your penis. You worry. tap, tap, tap. You scramble online for answers, and it only confuses you more.
“How do I know if I have an STI?”
“Why is the tip of my penis red and swollen?"
“Why is there a sharp shooting pain in my penis?”
These problems often root back to one or both of two sources: A lack of penis hygiene, and an ignorance of overall penis health. Adhering to a simple self-care routine of your down-theres can help prevent these surprise attacks!
Libertee’s expert chimes in:
We talked to one of our celebrated experts, Bangalore-based sexologist and psychiatrist:
Expert: Dr. Abhishek Kumar Sharma (MBBS, M.D. (Psychiatry).
In the last year Dr. Abhishek has created a safe, shame-free space for men to address their sex-related concerns. Today, he joins us to answer the most commonly asked questions on penis health and hygiene we've received.
Question: How do I keep my penis clean?
Answer: “Cleanliness depends on a key factor—circumcision,” explains Dr. Abhishek Kumar Sharma.
“For circumcised men, hygiene is straightforward, owing to the lack of foreskin.
This relatively reduces sensitivity. Water is usually sufficient. No need to overdo it—as it leads to dryness and irritation down there.
“A common question I hear is:
‘Why do I have a thick, white discharge on my penis?’
Question: Let’s talk Smegma - the natural white secretion on the penis
Answer: 'A common question I hear is: ‘Why do I have a thick, white discharge on my penis?’ Smega is a natural secretion of the prepuce, similar to earwax. In essence, a natural lubricant. It’s harmless and odorless when freshly secreted, but if left unwashed, becomes stale, with a fishy odor.
This is a favourable environment for bacterial or viral growth.
Smegma only forms in uncircumsised people’ is a common misconception. This is false, it is just much easier to clean for circumcised people.
Understanding smegma as a normal bodily process helps reduce stigma and encourages proper hygiene rather than overwashing that may have its own problems.
Simply let it wash gently while you take your morning shower.”
Additional tips from Dr. Abhishek:
Question: What are some common conditions caused by poor penile hygiene? How can they be prevented?
Answer: “Neglecting hygiene can lead to a host of problems,” says Dr. Abhishek. “From infections to pain, the consequences can affect your pelvic health, and even your sex life. Prevention starts with regular hygiene and awareness.”
Here are some common conditions and how they can be avoided:
- Balanitis: Redness, swelling, and soreness of the glans caused by irritation or infection. Follow a daily cleaning routine that includes gentle washing under the foreskin.
- Phimosis: Tight foreskin that can’t be retracted, often due to scarring, infections, or STIs. I recommend addressing issues early with a urologist.
- Yeast Infections: An overgrowth of Candida fungus can cause itching, redness, and rashes on the penis. Regular cleaning and consulting a doctor at the first signs are essential.
- Paraphimosis: A painful emergency where the foreskin gets stuck in the retracted position, restricting blood flow. Always reposition the foreskin properly after cleaning or sexual activity.
- Urinary Tract Infections (UTIs): Caused by bacterial growth, often due to poor hygiene or infrequent urination. Urinating right after sex can reduce risks.
- Sexually Transmitted Infections (STIs): From chlamydia to HIV, STIs can be serious. Always use condoms, water-based lubricants, and get tested frequently, especially when changing partners.”
Question: How to prevent STIs and infections?
Answer: “Follow the recommended hygiene routine, pre and post-sexual activity. It is critical to use condoms during vaginal, oral and anal sex. Additionally, opt for water-based lubricants to avoid irritation and condom breakage. Last, test for STIs regularly:
- At least once a year if sexually active
- Whenever you change partners
- If you experience symptoms or suspect exposure to an STI
Question: How can one prevent infections and STIs?
“The risks just aren’t worth it,” Dr. Abhishek warns.
“Here is my recommended pre and post-sexual activity hygiene routine. Follow it and reduce your risks manifold.
Use condoms during vaginal, oral, and anal sex—consider this non-negotiable.
Opt for water-based lubricants to avoid irritation and condom breakage.
Test for STIs regularly:
- At least once a year if sexually active.
- Whenever you change partners.
- If you experience symptoms or suspect exposure to an STI.”
“Right to Libertee” - A platform to self-educate on everything sexual wellness
At Libertee, knowledge is free! Normalcy, Education, Information – together with the combined knowledge of our experts and industry veterans, we continue to publish sex-ed content. After all, penile and vaginal health should be well-mastered subjects from the start!
If you found Dr. Abhishek’s insights useful, we’ll link his Practo right here! Address your concerns directly to a professional by booking an online consultation or in-person visit!
Got a sex-quesh on your mind? Reach out to us and we’ll gladly look into it.