Penis Burning: 7 Common Causes (& What To Do)

Penis burning is usually due to inflammation of the glans, also known as balanitis. Although in most cases this condition is the result of a mild allergic reaction or friction from underwear, there are situations in which inflammation of the glans can be a sign of a more serious problem, like an infection or a sexually transmitted infection (STI).

The burning sensation can also happen only with urinating; this is usually related to a urinary tract infection (UTI).

Because there are several causes for penis burning, and therefore it’s important to see your family doctor or urologist.  You should particularly get assessed if the burning happens frequently, if you have other symptoms, or if the burning lasts for over a week. 

Why does my penis burn?

The most common causes of penis burning are:

1. Friction from underwear

Penis burning with no other symptoms is most commonly caused by friction from underwear. It particularly happens in the summer, due to increased heat and humidity in the genital area. It also occurs more in men who wear synthetic-based fabric underwear (e.g. lycra or viscose).

Although it’s very common, it can be one of the most difficult causes to identify, since there is no specific trigger (just prolonged friction on the penis glans). Read more about penis irritation and what can cause it.

What to do: Adequate hygiene habits will help to relieve irritation, and underwear fabrics like cotton can help to prevent it. Sleeping without underwear can also help reduce burning, as it prevents friction during sleep.

2. Allergic reaction

The use of a product, like shower gel or moisturizer, in the genital area can provoke an allergic reaction in the glans. Wearing underwear with synthetic fabric can also result in an allergy and cause burning and the sensation of a burning penis.

What to do: Cleanse the affected area with warm water and, if possible, use a mild soap that is safe for genital use. Underwear fabrics like cotton are also recommended.

3. Friction during sex

Although very similar to friction caused by underwear, the burning sensation after masturbation or sexual intercourse occurs due to the inadequate lubrication. This problem can affect almost all men, who report a hot sensation on the penis.

In addition to the burning sensation, this type of friction can make the penis very red and painful, especially in the area of the glans. Due to the emergence of other symptoms, this cause can often be confused with a more serious problem, such as a sexually transmitted disease.

What to do: Ideally, lubrication should always be used during sexual contact or masturbation, especially if a condom isn’t used. Proper genital hygiene will help to resolve the burning sensation. You should see your family doctor or urologist if the burning or other symptoms do not improve within 3 days or if a sexually transmitted disease is suspected.

4. STI's

Penis burning is one of the most common symptoms of any sexually transmitted infection. Common infections that can cause burning include herpes, trichomoniasis, gonorrhea, and chlamydia.

With an STI, it’s common for other symptoms to appear in addition to the burning sensation, such as pus, lesions, or redness. They are more common in men who have more than one sexual partner and who don't use a condom. 

Learn more about the most common STIs and how they can present. 

What to do: If you suspect you have an STI, you should see your doctor or urologist for diagnosis. Treatment and medication will depend on the type of infection you have.

5. Yeast infection

A yeast infection, or candidiasis, is the overgrowth of fungus on the penis. Although this happens less frequently in men, it can happen as a result of poor hygiene or following unprotected sexual contact with another person with an yeast infection.

In addition to a hot, burning sensation, other common symptoms include intense redness on the glans, discharge, constant itching, and even small white bumps on the penis. Learn more about yeast infections in men and how they can present differently than women. 

What to do: If you suspect you have yeast infection, consult your family doctor or urologist for assessment. Treatment typically involves the use of an anti-fungal like fluconazole to eliminate the fungus and relieve symptoms. It’s also important to keep the intimate area clean and dry during the flare-up, and to avoid excessive intake of sugar. Read more about the candida diet you can adhere to while treating a yeast infection to speed-up recovery. 

You can also use sitz baths for yeast infections to complement the treatment prescribed by your doctor. 

6. UTI

A UTI is usually easy to identify, as it has very specific symptoms. These symptoms include a burning sensation when urinating, a burning penis, a feeling of heaviness in the bladder, and a frequent urge to urinate.

Although the burning sensation is usually associated with the urge to urinate, some men may also experience a constant burning sensation in the penis, particularly in the urethra. Complete our online UTI symptoms quiz to assess your risk for an infection. 

What to do: A UTI needs to be treated with an antibiotic and therefore you should consult your family doctor or urologist if you suspect a UTI.  Other considerations, like adequate hydration and hygiene, will also help with treatment and prevention of a UTI. Read more about other home remedies for UTI that you can use to complement your doctor’s medical treatment. 

7. Eczema or psoriasis

Some skin diseases, such as eczema and psoriasis, can cause dryness of the skin on the penis, leading to burning, itching, skin blisters and swelling.

What to do: treatment should be oriented by a urologist or dermatologist, who may prescribe corticosteroid or immunosuppressant ointments. It is also important to avoid bathing in very hot water, and to dry your skin well after bathing. Also avoid scratching the affected area to prevent worsening of skin breakdown.