Redness, swelling, itching or discomfort around the head of the penis or foreskin can be symptoms of balanitis or posthitis. These conditions are common, particularly in uncircumcised men, and are often caused by infections, skin conditions or irritation.
At Southern AlphaMen Clinic, Dr Gan provides confidential assessment and personalised treatment for balanitis and posthitis. Our goal is to identify the underlying cause, relieve symptoms and reduce the risk of recurrence.
Patients from Johor Bahru and Singapore are welcome for private consultations.
Balanitis is inflammation of the glans penis (the head of the penis).
Posthitis is inflammation of the foreskin (prepuce).
When both the glans and foreskin are inflamed, the condition is known as balanoposthitis.
Symptoms may include:
Symptoms vary depending on the underlying cause.
Several conditions can cause inflammation of the penis or foreskin, including:
One of the most common causes, particularly in men with diabetes or after antibiotic use.
Certain bacteria can cause infection and inflammation requiring medical treatment.
A build-up of smegma beneath the foreskin may contribute to irritation and infection.
Some sexually transmitted infections, including herpes, gonorrhoea and syphilis, may present with penile inflammation or sores.
Conditions such as:
may affect the penis and foreskin.
Undiagnosed or poorly controlled diabetes increases the risk of recurrent balanitis, particularly fungal infections.
Risk factors include:
Your consultation may include:
Not every patient requires all investigations. Testing is individualised based on your symptoms and examination findings.
Treatment depends on the underlying cause.
Management may include:
For Candida (yeast) infections.
For confirmed or suspected bacterial infections.
To reduce inflammation when appropriate.
Proper cleaning beneath the foreskin (if retractable) can reduce irritation and recurrence.
Good blood sugar control helps reduce recurrent infections in diabetic patients.
For patients with recurrent balanitis, severe phimosis or repeated infections, referral for circumcision may be recommended.
Medical assessment is recommended if you experience:
Early treatment helps prevent complications such as scarring, phimosis and recurrent infections.
No. Balanitis itself is not an STI. However, certain sexually transmitted infections can cause symptoms similar to balanitis or contribute to penile inflammation. Medical assessment is important to determine the underlying cause.
Mild cases caused by irritation may improve with better hygiene and avoidance of irritants. However, persistent or recurrent symptoms should be assessed by a doctor to identify the underlying cause and receive appropriate treatment.
Yes. Poorly controlled diabetes increases the risk of fungal infections and recurrent balanitis. Men with repeated episodes may benefit from blood sugar screening.
Balanitis itself is not contagious. However, if the inflammation is caused by an infection such as Candida or an STI, the underlying infection may be transmissible to sexual partners.
STI testing may be recommended if your symptoms, examination findings or sexual history suggest a possible sexually transmitted infection.
Circumcision may reduce the risk of recurrent balanitis in selected patients, particularly those with recurrent infections or significant phimosis. Your doctor will discuss whether referral is appropriate.
Yes. At Southern AlphaMen Clinic, all consultations, examinations and treatments are performed by certified doctors.
Yes. Walk-in patients are welcome, subject to doctor availability. However, appointments via WhatsApp or telephone are recommended to minimise waiting time.
Yes. Southern AlphaMen Clinic welcomes patients from Singapore seeking confidential men's health and genital skin condition assessment.
If you have redness, swelling, itching or discomfort affecting the penis or foreskin, arrange a confidential consultation with Dr Gan at Southern AlphaMen Clinic.
Early diagnosis helps identify the cause of your symptoms and allows prompt, appropriate treatment to reduce discomfort and prevent recurrence.
For shorter waiting times and your preferred appointment slot, we recommend booking via WhatsApp.
More detail about Southern Mens Clinic Sdn BhdMedical Disclaimer: Balanitis and posthitis may result from infections, skin conditions, diabetes or other medical causes. Treatment depends on the underlying diagnosis, and individual outcomes vary. A medical assessment is necessary to determine the most appropriate investigations and treatment plan.
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