Sexually transmitted infections often cause symptoms affecting the penis or groin. This article includes a list of symptoms that may indicate a sexually transmitted infection.
Discharge from the penis
A thick white, yellow or green discharge from the tip of the penis may be a sign of gonorrhea, especially if you also experience pain in the urethra or pain with urination.
Single sore on the penis
In primary syphilis, a hard, painless dime-sized sore (sometimes compared to a button) appears on the penis. This is usually accompanied by swelling of the lymph nodes in the groin.
Penile pain or discomfort
Pain or discomfort – often associated with urination – may be a sign of a sexually transmitted infection. You may also experience a discharge from your urethra.
Painful blisters or scabs on the penis
A cluster of painful or itchy red spots and small blisters on the penis may be a sign of genital herpes. Typically, the pain or itching comes first, followed a day or two later by the appearance of blisters. Herpes sores may also appear on the scrotum, thighs and buttocks.
Brown flecks on the hair around the penis
Tiny grey-brown eggs on the shafts of your pubic hair may be a sign of infestation by pubic lice (also called "crabs").
Red bumps on the penis and scrotum
A scabies infestation causes red itchy bumps and nodules, typically appearing in lines. Usually, similar lesions will be present elsewhere on your body if you have a scabies infestation.
If you are experiencing any of these symptoms, go see a doctor right away for a diagnosis and appropriate treatment.
Sources:
Behrman AJ, Shoff WH. "Gonorrhea." eMedicine.com, http://emedicine.medscape.com/article/782913-overview. Accessed 11 May 2010.
Diaz MM, Sinert RH. "Syphilis." eMedicine.com, http://emedicine.medscape.com/article/786191-overview. Accessed 11 May 2010.
McCroskey AL, Rosh AJ. "Scabies." eMedicine.com, http://emedicine.medscape.com/article/785873-overview. Accessed 11 May 2010.
