Penis Problems: 7 Signs You Should See a Urologist

Problems affecting the penis can be difficult or embarrassing to talk about, but they are also surprisingly common.

Pain, swelling, changes in shape, difficulty with erections or unusual lumps can have many different causes. Some are minor and temporary, while others may need proper medical assessment.

If a problem persists, becomes painful or begins affecting sexual or urinary function, speaking with your GP or a urologist in Brisbane may be the right next step.

Here are seven signs that should not simply be ignored.

1. Persistent Pain in the Penis

Penile pain can occur for several reasons.

Minor irritation or injury may settle on its own, but persistent pain should be assessed, particularly when it occurs during erections or sexual activity.

Possible causes can include injury, inflammation, infection or conditions such as Peyronie’s disease.

Sudden severe pain following an injury to an erect penis can be particularly important.

A penile fracture involves tearing of tissue within the penis and may cause sudden pain, swelling, bruising or a noticeable popping sensation.

This requires urgent medical attention.

2. A New Bend or Curve During Erections

A small natural curve in the penis is common.

However, if the penis gradually becomes noticeably more curved, particularly if erections become painful or intercourse becomes difficult, it could be a sign of Peyronie’s disease.

Peyronie’s disease occurs when scar tissue develops inside the penis.

This can cause:

• Curvature during an erection
• Pain
• A palpable hard area or lump
• Shortening or narrowing of the penis
• Difficulty with sexual intercourse
• Erectile dysfunction

Some men delay seeking help because they assume the problem will disappear.

If the curvature is new or worsening, a urologist can assess the condition and discuss available treatment options.

3. Difficulty Getting or Maintaining an Erection

Occasional difficulty achieving an erection can happen to many men.

Persistent erectile dysfunction is different.

Erectile dysfunction, commonly referred to as ED, can have physical, psychological or combined causes.

Possible physical factors include problems with blood flow, diabetes, cardiovascular disease, hormonal issues, prostate conditions and certain medications.

Peyronie’s disease can also contribute to erectile problems.

Because erectile dysfunction can sometimes be associated with broader health conditions, persistent ED is worth discussing with a doctor rather than simply treating the symptom yourself.

A Brisbane urologist may also be involved when the problem relates to the urinary or male reproductive system.

4. Lumps or Hard Areas in the Penis

Finding a lump or hardened area can understandably cause concern.

Not every lump is cancerous.

Some may be related to scar tissue, blocked glands or other benign conditions.

A hard plaque beneath the skin may, for example, occur with Peyronie’s disease.

However, any new or unexplained lump that persists should be properly assessed.

Changes that should be checked include:

• A persistent lump
• Thickening of the skin
• A hard area beneath the skin
• Changes in colour or texture
• A sore that does not heal

Early assessment can determine whether further investigation is necessary.

5. Persistent Swelling, Redness or Inflammation

Temporary swelling can occur after injury or irritation.

Persistent swelling, however, may indicate inflammation, infection or another underlying problem.

The penis may become:

• Red
• Tender
• Painful
• Itchy
• Swollen
• Difficult to retract if the foreskin is involved

Inflammation of the head of the penis is known as balanitis and can sometimes affect the foreskin as well.

Poor hygiene, irritation and infection can all contribute.

Persistent or recurrent inflammation should be discussed with a doctor.

6. Discharge, Sores or Unusual Lesions

Discharge from the penis or the appearance of sores, ulcers or unusual lesions can sometimes be associated with a sexually transmitted infection.

Possible STIs include gonorrhoea, chlamydia, herpes and syphilis.

Not every sore or discharge is caused by an STI, but these symptoms should be assessed rather than self-diagnosed.

If you believe you may have been exposed to an STI, your GP or a sexual health clinic is usually the appropriate first point of contact.

STI testing can identify infections even when symptoms are mild or absent.

What About HIV?

HIV is a viral infection that affects the immune system and is not primarily treated by a urologist.

Importantly, HIV cannot be diagnosed by looking at the penis or by relying on symptoms alone.

Someone who believes they may have been exposed to HIV should seek medical advice and appropriate testing through a GP or sexual health service.

Modern HIV treatment is highly effective, and people receiving effective treatment can live long and healthy lives.

7. Problems With the Foreskin

Foreskin problems are another common reason men seek medical advice.

These can include:

• Difficulty retracting the foreskin
• Pain when retracting it
• Recurrent infections
• Cracking or bleeding
• Swelling
• Difficulty cleaning underneath the foreskin

A tight foreskin is known as phimosis.

In some cases it can cause pain, infections or difficulty urinating.

Treatment depends on the severity of the problem and may include medication or, in some circumstances, a surgical procedure.

A foreskin that has been pulled back and becomes trapped behind the head of the penis is known as paraphimosis.

This can restrict blood flow and requires urgent medical treatment.

When Should You See a Doctor?

It is worth arranging an assessment if you notice a penile problem that:

• Persists for more than a short period
• Is becoming worse
• Causes significant pain
• Affects erections or sexual activity
• Causes difficulty urinating
• Involves a persistent lump or sore
• Causes recurrent swelling or inflammation
• Is associated with discharge
• Follows a significant injury

Some problems can be treated relatively simply once the cause has been identified.

Waiting because the issue feels embarrassing can sometimes allow the problem to become more difficult to manage.

When Is It an Emergency?

Seek urgent medical attention if you experience:

• A significant injury to an erect penis
• Sudden severe pain and swelling
• Heavy bleeding
• An erection lasting several hours that will not go away
• Inability to urinate
• A foreskin trapped behind the head of the penis with increasing swelling or pain

These situations should not wait for a routine appointment.

Seeing a Urologist in Brisbane

Urologists specialise in conditions affecting the urinary system and the male reproductive system.

Depending on the problem, a urologist may investigate penile pain, erectile dysfunction, penile curvature, foreskin problems, injuries and other conditions affecting male genital health.

Dr Jo Schoeman is an experienced urologist in Brisbane providing specialist assessment and treatment for a broad range of urological conditions.

If you have a persistent penile problem or have been referred for specialist assessment, contact Dr Jo Schoeman’s rooms or speak with your GP about whether a urology referral is appropriate.

Ignoring a problem because it feels embarrassing rarely makes it easier.

Getting the right diagnosis is the first step toward deciding whether treatment is actually needed.