What is penile pain? Penile pain can affect the base, body or head of the penis, but it can also affect the foreskin (the skin covering the head of the penis). The pain may be accompanied by itching, burning or throbbing. Complaints may be the result of an accident or illness. Penile pain can affect men of all ages. Penile pain can vary depending on the underlying cause that is causing it. In case of injury, the pain can be severe and appear suddenly. If the cause of penile pain is a disease, the pain may be mild and gradually increase. Any type of penile pain is cause for concern, especially if it occurs during erection, interferes with urination, or occurs along with discharge, sores, redness, or swelling. What are the possible causes of penile pain? Peyronie’s disease Peyronie’s disease occurs when fibrous plaques form in the penis, leading to difficult, painful erections and penile deformity. Priapism Priapism causes a painful, prolonged erection. This condition can occur even when men are not aroused. Priapism is most common in men in their 30s. When priapism occurs, it must be treated immediately to prevent long-term complications from the condition that can affect the ability to have an erection. Priapism can occur as a result of: Adverse reactions from drugs used to treat erectile problems or drugs used to treat depression; Blood coagulation disorders; Mental disorders; Diseases affecting the blood, such as leukemia or sickle cell anemia; Use of alcohol; Drug use; Injury to the penis or spinal cord Balanitis Balanitis is an infection of the foreskin and head of the penis. It usually affects men and boys who do not regularly wash the head of the penis below the foreskin or who have not been circumcised. Men and boys who have been circumcised can also develop the condition. Other causes of balanitis may include: Fungal infection; sexually transmitted infections; Allergy to soap, perfumes or other products Sexually transmitted infections Sexually transmitted infections can cause pain in the penis. Such infectious diseases include: Chlamydia; Gonorrhea; Genital herpes; Syphilis Bibliography: Mayo Clinic Staff. Priapism Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). Gonorrhea—CDC fact sheet Healthline. Possible Causes of Penis Pain and How to Treat It