Male Discharge: What You Need to Know

Men might be scandalised when they see abrupt discharge from the penis. Male discharge, therefore, is often a source of concern and embarrassment for men.

It makes it extremely important to learn to differentiate between normal and abnormal discharge. In this blog, we will talk about different types of male discharge which will help men maintain their health and seek medical attention when required.

Understanding Male Discharge

Male discharge refers to any fluid that is released from the penis. The discharge can occur during sexual arousal, ejaculation, or even without any sexual activity.

The most common types of discharge include pre-ejaculate or pre-cum, semen, and urine. All of these are normal, but there are other types of discharge which may indicate an underlying health issue.

Types of Normal Discharge

Pre-ejaculate (Pre-cum): Pre-ejaculate is a clear, slippery fluid released during sexual arousal before ejaculation. It aids in lubrication which makes it easier for sperm to pass through.

This type of discharge usually varies in quantity and may or may not be noticeable every time.

Semen: Semen is the fluid that is ejaculated during orgasm. It contains sperm and fluids from the seminal vesicles and prostate gland. Semen is usually white or slightly yellowish and may vary in consistency.

Urine: After urination, it is normal to have a small amount of urine discharge. This is usually clear to light yellow and does not have a strong odor.

Common Causes of Abnormal Male Discharge

Other than this normal occurrence, there could be other reasons for male discharge which include:

Sexually Transmitted Infections (STIs): STIs like gonorrhoea, chlamydia, and trichomoniasis are common causes of abnormal discharge.

These infections can lead to pus-like or cloudy discharge and could be accompanied by pain or burning during urination.

Urinary Tract Infections (UTIs): UTIs can cause a cloudy or bloody discharge, along with other symptoms such as frequent urination, pain, and a burning sensation.

Prostatitis: Inflammation of the prostate gland, also known as prostatitis, can also cause discharge. It also causes pain in the pelvic area, difficulty urinating, and flu-like symptoms.

Balanitis: Balanitis is inflammation of the foreskin and head of the penis. It is often caused by poor hygiene, infections, or irritants. The condition can lead to a thick, white discharge, redness, and swelling.

Non-Gonococcal Urethritis (NGU): NGU is an inflammation of the urethra not caused by gonorrhoea and is one of the most common sexually transmitted illnesses in men.

It can result from bacterial infections, including chlamydia, or even from irritation. The symptoms of the condition include a clear or white discharge and discomfort during urination.

When Should You Consult A Doctor?

If you experience any abnormal discharge, it is important to consult a healthcare professional. Certain characteristics of discharge can indicate a potential health issue.

If you notice any of the following, it is important to bring it to the notice of an expert:

Unusual Color: A discharge that is green, yellow, or brown can indicate an infection, and needs further evaluation.

Foul Odor: A strong, unpleasant smell can be a sign of an underlying bacterial infection.

Blood in Discharge: Blood in the discharge can be alarming and may indicate an injury, infection, or other serious condition.

Pain or Discomfort: Discharge accompanied by pain, burning, itching, or discomfort needs to be evaluated by a healthcare professional.

Increased Volume: If there is a significant increase in the volume of discharge, even during sexual arousal, can be a sign of an underlying issue.

An expert sexologist can conduct a thorough evaluation, including a physical examination and laboratory tests. It can help identify the exact root cause after which they can suggest appropriate treatment.

They can prescribe common diagnostic tests like:

Urinalysis: A urine test can be done to help detect infections and other abnormalities.

Swab Tests: A swab of the urethra can be tested for STIs and other infections.

Blood Tests: Specific blood tests can also identify systemic infections and other underlying conditions.

Treatment Options

There are various treatment protocols for abnormal discharge and usually depend on the underlying cause. Different treatment strategies include -

Antibiotics: Several bacterial infections, including STIs and UTIs, are treated with the help of antibiotics. It is essential to complete the full course of antibiotics as prescribed which is often neglected by patients.

Antifungal Medications: If a fungal infection, such as yeast, is the cause, antifungal medications may be prescribed.

Better Hygiene: For conditions like balanitis, upgrading personal hygiene and avoiding irritants can help the symptoms.

Prostate Treatments: Prostatitis may require antibiotics, anti-inflammatory medications, or other treatments based on the cause.

How Can You Prevent Abnormal Discharge?

You can reduce the risk of abnormal discharge and related health issues by following a few tips like:

Practice Safe Sex: Using condoms can effectively reduce the risk of STIs.

Maintain Good Hygiene: Regularly washing and drying the genital area can prevent infections.

Stay Hydrated: Having plenty of water helps all bodily functions to run smoothly including maintaining urinary tract health.

Regular Check-Ups: Routine medical check-ups can help detect and address issues early on and may prevent worsening of any health condition.

Bottom Line

Although male discharge is usually normal, it is important to recognize the signs of abnormal discharge and seek medical advice when necessary.

Understanding the causes and maintaining good hygiene and other safe practices can help ensure overall genital health.

If you have any doubts or concerns about your discharge, consult a sexologist today to avail appropriate evaluation and treatment.