It’s often assumed that men and boys instinctively understand how to keep their genitals clean or they had someone explain good hygiene to them when they were growing up. That’s not always the case, so it helps to get a refresher on the dos and don’ts of washing downstairs. Here’s what you need to know about how to clean your penis and the signs your hygiene habits need some work.
So, how do you wash your penis?
You should wash your penis every day with warm water. If you do want to use soap, choose a low irritant option designed for sensitive skin.
Avoid colognes, deodorants, body washes, lotions or moisturisers that contain alcohol and perfumes.
How do you clean your foreskin?
If you have a foreskin, keeping it clean will help prevent inflammation or infection. When washing, gently pull back your foreskin and rinse the head of your penis and underneath the foreskin.
The foreskin should not be pulled back using force as this can cause injury and sometimes scarring, which can lead to further complications.
When it’s time to dry off, retract the foreskin again so you can gently dry the head of the penis with a towel. Then pull the foreskin forward to its normal position.
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What is smegma and how do you get rid of it?
Smegma is a substance made up of dead skin cells and oily secretions that looks like thick, whitish discharge, and it can collect under the foreskin in uncircumcised men. This is natural, but if too much builds up it can produce a pretty unpleasant smell and make it difficult to pull the foreskin back, so it’s important to keep on top of cleaning it.
Excess smegma also encourages the growth of bacteria, which can lead to infections. If the smegma has hardened, you might not be able to pull your foreskin back all the way. Don’t force it — this can cause a tear that could lead to infection. Wash normally and avoid harsh scrubbing.
Other hygiene tips
Clean the base of your penis and scrotum
Don’t forget to clean the base of your penis and the scrotum — this is a good time to do a quick Testicular Self Examination (TSE) to check for any changes to the area.
Change underwear
Change your underwear after exercising.
Clean yourself after having sex
If you’re sexually active, always give yourself a good clean after having sex.
What to watch out for
If you notice itchiness, pain, tenderness, discharge, rash or lumps around the head of your penis, it’s a good idea to see a doctor to make sure you avoid any long-term damage. ‘
What happens if you don’t keep up good hygiene?
There are a few common penis problems that can develop if you don’t wash your the area properly.
1. Balanitis
Balanitis is when the head of the penis becomes red, swollen and sore. It can happen if the area isn’t kept clean, or if there’s an infection or irritation. Balanitis is more common in boys and men who aren’t circumcised. It can usually be treated with medicine or by improving hygiene.
2. Phimosis
Phimosis is when the foreskin of the penis is too tight to pull back over the head of the penis. It’s common in young boys and usually gets better as they grow older. If it doesn’t, or if it causes pain or problems with urination or sex, treatment is required. Scarring of the foreskin from an injury, infection, poor hygiene, inflammation, or skin conditions like lichen sclerosis (also known as balanitis xerotica obliterans) can cause phimosis.
3. Yeast infection
A yeast infection happens when a type of fungus called Candida grows too much in certain areas of the body, like the mouth or genitals. This can happen when you don’t practise good hygiene. Yeast infections are common and can cause itching, redness and discomfort. They’re usually easy to treat with creams or medicine. They can affect both men and women.
If you notice any changes to your penis, your scrotum or its contents, it’s a good idea to see a doctor.
