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Balanitis is when the head of the penis is swollen and sore. It's not usually serious but it's important to see a GP to find out what's causing it.
With balanitis, the head of your penis is usually swollen, itchy and sore. It usually looks red, but this may be less obvious on brown or black skin.
Other symptoms can include:
Adults can also go to a sexual health clinic for assessment.
Sexual health clinics treat problems with the genitals.
Many sexual health clinics offer a walk-in service, where you do not need an appointment.
They'll often get test results quicker than GP surgeries.
If you have symptoms of balanitis, a doctor or nurse will look at your penis and ask you a few questions.
If your symptoms are severe, they may suggest a blood test to check for conditions that can lead to balanitis, such as diabetes.
They may also wipe a cotton bud over the head of your penis to test for infections.
Treatment for balanitis depends on what's causing it.
A GP may prescribe:
If you or your child keeps getting balanitis and medicine has not helped, circumcision (surgery to remove the foreskin) may be considered.
wash your penis every day using just water or an emollient (moisturising treatment)
gently pull back your foreskin and wash the area with warm water
dry gently after washing
if you use condoms, choose condoms for sensitive skin
wash your hands before peeing or touching your penis
do not use soap or shower gel
gently wash your child's penis every day
use warm water and then dry it gently
if they wear nappies, change your child's nappies often
do not use soap, bubble bath or baby wipes
do not pull your child's foreskin back if it's fixed in place
Causes of balanitis include:
