References UK clinical guidance from the NHS, the British HIV Association (BHIVA), and the British Association for Sexual Health and HIV (BASHH). Last updated: April 2026.
Balanitis is inflammation of the head of the penis (glans). It’s common, especially in uncircumcised men, and has many possible causes including thrush, bacterial infections, skin conditions, poor hygiene or irritation. Most cases are easily treated once the cause is identified.
Here’s what to know.
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Symptoms
- Redness and swelling of the glans
- Itching or burning
- Pain or soreness
- Discharge under the foreskin
- Tightness of the foreskin
- Cracked or flaky skin
- Unpleasant smell
Common Causes
| Cause | Details |
|---|---|
| Candida (thrush) | Most common cause; can be passed from partner |
| Bacterial infection | Streptococcus, staphylococcus, anaerobes |
| Poor hygiene | Smegma build-up can irritate the skin |
| Over-washing | Soap and harsh washing can strip the skin |
| Contact dermatitis | Reaction to soap, condoms, lubricant |
| Skin conditions | Eczema, psoriasis, lichen sclerosus |
| Diabetes | Poorly controlled diabetes increases risk |
| STIs | Trichomoniasis, herpes, syphilis can cause symptoms |
When to See a Doctor
- Persistent redness or swelling
- Pain or discharge
- Foreskin won’t retract
- Symptoms after unprotected sex
- Recurring episodes
- Ulcers or blisters
Diagnosis
Diagnosis is usually based on examination. Additional tests may include:
- Swab to identify infections
- Urine test for glucose (checking for diabetes)
- STI screening if relevant
- Biopsy in chronic or unusual cases
Treatment
- Thrush — antifungal cream (clotrimazole) or oral fluconazole
- Bacterial infection — antibiotics as appropriate
- Contact dermatitis — remove the irritant; mild steroid cream
- Skin conditions — specific treatment (steroid cream, emollients)
- Diabetes-related — improve glucose control
- STI-related — treat the underlying infection
Self-Care
- Wash gently with water only — avoid soap on the glans
- Retract the foreskin daily (if possible) to clean underneath
- Dry thoroughly
- Wear loose cotton underwear
- Avoid harsh detergents on underwear
Prevention
- Good genital hygiene without over-washing
- Manage diabetes well
- Use condoms to reduce STI risk
- Identify and avoid irritants
Should Partners Be Treated?
If balanitis is caused by thrush and you have a female partner who also has thrush symptoms, both should be treated. For other causes, partner treatment depends on the specific diagnosis.
Read more: Vaginal infections | Yeast infections | What is chlamydia?
Frequently Asked Questions
Is balanitis an STI?
Usually not, but some STIs can cause similar symptoms.
Will it go away on its own?
Mild cases sometimes do. Persistent or recurring balanitis needs treatment.
Can circumcision prevent recurring balanitis?
For severe or recurring cases unresponsive to treatment, circumcision may be considered.
Related reading
- Common STI Symptoms in Women
- Is Testicular Pain a Sign of an STI?
- What Is a Female (Internal) Condom?
- Erectile Dysfunction and HIV
- Female Condoms for Anal Sex: What You Need to Know
Sources
- NHS — Sexual health conditions
- BASHH — UK clinical guidelines for STI management
- British HIV Association (BHIVA) — HIV treatment guidelines
- Terrence Higgins Trust — sexual health information
- UK Health Security Agency — STI surveillance data
Steve Page is a recognised expert on Sexually Transmitted Diseases (STDs) and STD treatments, having published numerous articles in peer-reviewed journals and presented his research at conferences around the world. He has an in-depth understanding of the latest medical research on STDs, and is an advocate for the development of new treatments and protocols to improve the health of those affected. In addition to his research, he has dedicated his career to understanding the causes and symptoms of STDs, as well as how to best treat those impacted.
