Contained in an area that gets a lot of moisture and not much ventilation, penises often have an odor. But if that smell has changed or become more pungent, it may be a sign that something is wrong. Most of the reasons for penis odor can be easily treated, and all of them can be prevented. Let’s learn a little about the most common causes of penis odor and how to prevent bad odors from invading the area.

#1: Smegma

Smegma brings funk like nothing else and is usually the first thing that comes to mind when the topic of penis odor comes up. Smegma is the buildup of moisture, oils, and skin cells around the shaft of the penis and under the foreskin in uncircumcised men. When it builds up, it can manifest as a thick, whitish paste that leads to infection and inflammation.

The best way to combat smegma is a thorough washing. Using a mild cleanser and warm water, remove the skin from the foreskin and gently wash the area. Then rinse well and dry with a soft towel. Repeat daily until the smegma disappears.

If the foreskin does not retract or the swelling and irritation do not subside, see a medical professional.

#2. Thrush or Candidiasis

Yeast infections occur when the Candida fungus on the penis grows out of control. This overgrowth gives the penis a musty odor. Yeast infections can also include redness, itching, burning, and thick white discharge. It can be caused by lax hygiene or contracted by a partner.

Men who have these symptoms will need to see a doctor for a diagnosis and medication. The most common medication prescribed is Diflucan.

#3: Chlamydia

Chlamydia is a sexually transmitted infection (STI) that you get by having vaginal, oral, or anal sex with someone who is already infected. Chlamydia is tricky because it doesn’t always cause symptoms, but in some cases, people experience penis odor, a burning sensation when urinating, discharge, and swollen testicles.

Treatment requires a trip to the doctor for an antibiotic. Treatment can last for seven days, so be sure to refrain from sexual intercourse while undergoing diagnosis and treatment.

#4: Gonorrhea

Gonorrhea is also an STI and is spread through intimate contact with the vagina, anus, or mouth of an infected partner. Like Chlamydia, it does not always present symptoms; however, for those who are symptomatic, a penile odor is present, as well as a burning sensation on urination, pain, bleeding, itching, painful bowel movements, and green, yellow, or white discharge.

Gonorrhea treatment also requires a visit to the doctor for diagnosis and treatment. The most common treatment method is a Rocephin injection and a round of oral medications. The course of treatment lasts for at least seven days, so avoid intimate contact while you are being diagnosed and treated.

#5: Non-gonococcal urethritis

Nongonococcal urethritis (NGU) occurs when the urethra becomes inflamed. It is called “non-gonococcal” because it is caused by something other than gonorrhea. Symptoms include a sour odor, pain and irritation at the tip of the penis, cloudy discharge from the penis, and a burning sensation when urinating.

It is important to seek medical treatment immediately, as NGU can lead to infertility if left untreated. A doctor will prescribe antibiotics to fight the infection and the normal treatment time is seven days. Since NGU can be spread through intimate contact, refrain from sexual intercourse during diagnosis and treatment.

How to prevent penis odor

There are a few ways to prevent penis odor from ruining a romantic evening or leading to more serious medical problems.

– Clean the penis regularly: daily is preferred, but be sure to bathe after sex and exercise too, plus any extra sweaty days.

– Wear loose cotton underwear to give the genital area a more breathable environment.

– Sleep naked to give circulation to the genital area.

– Keep pubic hair trimmed as longer pubic hair can retain odors and retain dirt, moisture and bacteria.

– Practice safe sex by using condoms and having frank discussions about sexual history and health before having sex.

– Use a specially formulated penis health cream (Health professionals recommend Man 1 Man Oil, which has been clinically proven to be safe and gentle on skin.) daily in the genital area. These creams are created especially for the area and contain key nutrients to not only hydrate the penis but also reduce bacteria and promote cell function.