Discharge in men refers to fluid or mucus coming from the penis, other than urine or semen. While discharge can sometimes be normal, such as pre-ejaculate during sexual arousal, it can also indicate underlying health issues like a sexually transmitted infection (STI), prostatitis, or a urethral infection (urethritis). In this article, we discuss the different types of penile discharge, their possible causes and symptoms, and when it is advisable to seek medical help.
What is discharge in men?
Discharge in men refers to fluid that comes from the penis, other than urine. It can vary in color, consistency, and amount. It may be clear, white, yellow, green, bloody, or pus-like. While some forms of discharge, such as pre-ejaculation, are normal, unusual discharge often indicates infections or other medical conditions, especially if accompanied by pain, a burning sensation, or an unpleasant odor.
Is discharge in men normal?
Not every form of discharge in men is a cause for concern. Pre-ejaculation, for example, is a normal occurrence during sexual arousal. However, discharge unusual in color, smell, or consistency, accompanied by symptoms like pain or itching, can indicate an infection or another underlying condition.
Common types of penile discharge in men
Discharge can appear in various forms, with specific characteristics and possible causes. Below, we discuss the most common types of discharge in men, along with their associated symptoms and causes:
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Clear or white discharge in men
A common form of discharge in men is clear or white. This can occur after urination or without any obvious cause.
Symptoms:
- Burning sensation during urination
- Frequent urge to urinate
- Itching or irritation of the glans or under the foreskin
Possible causes:
- Chlamydia: A sexually transmitted infection (STI) often accompanied by mild, clear, or white discharge. Treatment is necessary to prevent complications.
- Urethritis (Urethral Infection): Inflammation of the urethra caused by bacteria or viruses can lead to watery or milky discharge. This can also occur without an STI.
Yellow or green discharge (pus from the penis)
Yellow or greenish discharge, often described as pus from the penis, usually indicates an active infection.
Symptoms:
- Painful and burning sensation when urinating
- Redness and swelling around the penis
- Pain or swelling in the testicles
Possible causes:
- Gonorrhea: A bacterial STI that often causes thick, yellow-green discharge. Immediate medical attention is required.
- Trichomoniasis: A parasitic infection that can cause frothy, yellow-green discharge, often with an unpleasant odor.
Bloody or brown discharge in men
Brown discharge in men may indicate the presence of blood mixed with discharge and can be a sign of injury or infection.
Symptoms:
- Pain when urinating or ejaculating
- Blood in the urine (hematuria)
- Pain in the lower abdomen or groin
Possible causes:
- Injury or Trauma: Damage to the penis or urethra due to physical injury.
- Urethritis: Severe forms of urethral infection can cause bloody discharge.
- Prostate Problems: Conditions such as prostatitis can cause blood in the discharge
Thick, white or creamy discharge in men
Thick, white discharge from the penis, especially under the foreskin or on the glans, may indicate a fungal infection or a non-sexually transmitted condition.
Symptoms:
- Itching or burning sensation around the glans
- Redness and swelling of the foreskin or glans
- Painful urination
Possible causes:
- Yeast Infection (Candidiasis): A fungal infection often associated with thick, white discharge.
- Non-gonococcal Urethritis (NGU): Urethritis caused by bacteria or viruses other than gonorrhea.
Foul-smelling discharge
A foul smell from the penis can indicate bacterial infections or STIs.
Symptoms:
- Unpleasant odor around the penis
- Discomfort or pain when urinating
- Possible redness or swelling
Possible causes:
- Bacterial Infections: Certain forms of urethritis or infections caused by bacterial vaginosis in a partner.
- STIs: For example, chlamydia or gonorrhea.
Watery discharge in men
Watery discharge can be more subtle but often indicates an infection in its early stages.
Symptoms:
- Mild burning sensation during urination
- Clear to slightly cloudy discharge
Possible causes:
- Viral Infections: For example, herpes simplex, which can sometimes cause thin, watery discharge.
- Early Stages of Bacterial Infections: Such as chlamydia, which begins with watery discharge.
Purulent (pus-like) discharge
Purulent discharge often indicates a severe infection that requires immediate medical treatment.
Symptoms:
- Severe pain during urination
- Swelling or tenderness in the genital area
- Possible fever or general malaise
Possible causes:
- Advanced Bacterial Infections: For example, advanced gonorrhea.
- Abscesses or Deep Infections: In the prostate or urethra.
Common causes of penile discharge
Now that we have discussed the different types and symptoms of penile discharge, it’s important to understand the common underlying causes of discharge in men. Some of the most common causes of penile discharge include:
- Sexually Transmitted Infections (STIs): Gonorrhea, chlamydia, and trichomoniasis are common STIs that can cause abnormal discharge. Gonorrhea often leads to thick, yellow-green discharge or pus from the penis, while chlamydia usually results in clear or white discharge in men. Trichomoniasis often causes frothy, yellow-green discharge. These conditions are diagnosed through one of our STI tests, such as urine tests, penile swabs, or blood tests.
- Prostatitis: Prostatitis is an inflammation of the prostate gland that can cause pain and discharge in men. It is often accompanied by symptoms such as pelvic pain and difficulty urinating. The diagnosis of prostatitis is made through a physical examination, blood tests such as the prostate-specific antigen (PSA) test, and sometimes a prostate biopsy.
- Urethritis (Urethral Inflammation): Urethritis is the inflammation of the urethra, often caused by infections or irritants, which can lead to discharge, pain, and itching. It can result from both sexually transmitted and non-sexually transmitted causes. The diagnosis of urethritis is usually made through a combination of physical examination, urine tests, and urethral swabs.
- Balanitis: This condition involves the inflammation of the glans and is often caused by fungal infections or poor hygiene. Symptoms include redness, swelling, and white discharge around the glans or under the foreskin. Balanitis is usually diagnosed through a physical examination and sometimes by swabbing the affected area to identify the specific pathogen.
By understanding these common causes of penile discharge, you can better recognize the source of the problem and seek the appropriate treatment. It is essential to consult a doctor for an accurate diagnosis and appropriate treatment if you experience symptoms such as brown discharge in men, white discharge from the penis, or watery discharge in men.
When is discharge a sign of an STI?
Discharge is not always a sign of an STI, as some STIs can be asymptomatic. However, if you notice that the discharge has an unusual color, consistency, or smell, or if you’ve had unprotected sex, it may be a sign of an STI. Green or yellow discharge, a strong odor, or itching, for example, can indicate an STI. You can use at-home STI tests to check for infections and consult a doctor for treatment if necessary.
Possible complications if left untreated
Untreated infections can lead to serious complications such as infertility, chronic pain, and pelvic inflammatory disease. It is important to seek medical help if symptoms persist.
Conclusion
Discharge in men can indicate a range of medical conditions. It can vary from an STI such as chlamydia or gonorrhea to other infections like urethritis or prostatitis. Regardless of the type of discharge, it’s important to be aware of symptoms such as pain, itching, and an unpleasant odor. When in doubt, always consult a doctor for diagnosis and treatment to prevent further complications.
