Penile Discharge in Men: Common Symptoms, Causes, and Effective Treatments

Overview

Penile discharge in men is a concerning symptom that can manifest in various forms, such as white discharge from the penis, yellow discharge from the penis, or even a clear sticky discharge in males with no pain. Understanding male discharge is crucial for identifying potential underlying health issues. This blog will describe the many forms of discharge in men and provide insight into the possible causes of these symptoms, ranging from infections to non-infectious diseases.

It is essential to recognise the signs early to seek appropriate medical care. Whether it’s a white or yellow discharge, penile discharge could indicate infections like sexually transmitted diseases (STDs) or other conditions affecting the urinary tract. We will also explain the symptoms of these discharges, such as itching, burning, or a foul smell, and help understand the effective treatments available, from antibiotics to lifestyle changes. Staying informed about male health is vital, and by understanding the causes and cures of penile discharge, men can take proactive steps to maintain their health and well-being. Read on to learn more about this important yet often overlooked aspect of men’s health.

What is normal penile discharge?

“Penile discharge shouldn’t be ignored, as it may indicate an underlying infection or health issue. Prompt medical attention is vital for early diagnosis and preventing complications”. Says Dr. Richard Honekar 

Normal penile discharge typically includes pre-ejaculate and ejaculate, which are released from the tip of the penis during sexual arousal and intercourse. It’s essential to differentiate normal discharge from abnormal penis discharge, which may signal a medical concern. Another substance that may accumulate around the head of the penis, although not classified as penile discharge, is smegma.

Below is a detailed look at these types of normal male discharge.

Pre-ejaculate

Preejaculatory fluid, also known as precum, is a type of clear penile discharge that is a thick, alkaline mucus produced by the bulbourethral glands, or Cowper’s glands. These are two small glands located beneath the prostate gland. During sexual arousal, these glands can secrete up to 4 millilitres (ml) of pre-ejaculate fluid into the urethra.

Preejaculatory fluid serves several purposes:

• Acts as a lubricant for semen
• Lubricates the tip of the penis during sexual activity
• Neutralises any residual urine acidity in the urethra
• Helps to neutralise vaginal acidity

While the bulbourethral glands release pre-ejaculatory fluid, the testes release sperm. A study from 2011 found that some pre-ejaculate samples contained live sperm, with counts as high as 23 million. However, it remains unclear whether this sperm presence is due to contamination just before ejaculation or leftover sperm from a prior ejaculation.

Ejaculate

Ejaculate (semen) is a milky, cloudy fluid expelled through the urethra during ejaculation, typically coinciding with orgasm. Unlike the clear penile discharge that may occur before ejaculation, semen contains sperm, and healthy semen has sperm concentrations ranging from 15 to 150 million sperm per millilitre.

The epididymis and the vas deferens are ducts behind the testes where mature sperm are created. Sperm and seminal fluid combine during sexual excitement to form semen. Seminal vesicles and the prostate secrete a white liquid known as seminal fluid.

The composition of semen generally includes:

• 1–5% sperm
• Around 5% of secretions from the bulbourethral glands
• 15–30% secretions from the prostate
• Fluid from the seminal vesicles

Smegma

Smegma is a thick, white substance composed of skin cells, oils, and moisture produced by the sebaceous glands around the genitals. In men, smegma often accumulates between the head of the penis and the foreskin. It acts as a natural lubricant, keeping the genitals moist and aiding in the retraction of the foreskin during intercourse. However, excessive smegma buildup might lead to discomfort or even infections, which could result in abnormal discharge from the penis, such as a yellow discharge in men from the pee hole.

What are the symptoms of discharge in men?

Discharge in men can manifest in various ways depending on the underlying cause. Common symptoms include:

• Unusual Fluid from the Penis: The discharge may be clear, white, yellow, or greenish and can vary in consistency from thick to thin.
• Foul Odor: The discharge may have an unpleasant smell.
• Pain or Discomfort: Some men may experience pain or a burning sensation during urination or when the discharge occurs.
• Itching or Irritation: There might be itching or irritation around the tip of the penis or the urethra.
• Redness or Swelling: The area around the urethra may become red or swollen.
• Painful Ejaculation: Some men may notice discomfort or pain during ejaculation.

What causes discharge in men?

Penile discharge in men can result from a variety of causes, both infectious and non-infectious. Understanding the potential causes of discharge can help men identify when to seek medical advice and what types of treatments may be necessary.

Discharge in men can present in various forms, each with different implications for health. Understanding these symptoms can help distinguish between normal physiological discharge and signs of a potential health issue. Below are the various types of discharge and their symptoms.

Clear Discharge from Penis

Clear discharge in men is often natural, especially during sexual arousal. This type of discharge is commonly referred to as precum and serves to lubricate the urethra and neutralise any residual acidity from urine. When asking, “Is precum normal?” the answer is yes; it is a typical physiological response and generally does not indicate a problem. However, if a clear discharge male experiences occurs without sexual arousal or is continuous, it could suggest an underlying condition such as urethritis or prostatitis.(Van der Meijden & Stolz, 2014).

White Penile Discharge 

White penile discharge in men is often associated with fungal infections, particularly those caused by Candida species. Although more commonly discussed in the context of vaginal infections, Candida can also affect men, leading to conditions such as balanitis. This condition, characterised by inflammation of the glans penis, can result in a thick, white discharge. Men with diabetes or those who are immunocompromised are at higher risk for developing this type of infection.

Yellow Discharge in Men

A yellow discharge in men may be a warning sign of a potential infection, most commonly a sexually transmitted infection (STI) like gonorrhea or chlamydia. Other symptoms like burning or discomfort when urinating, itching, swelling at the tip of the penis, or an unpleasant stench are frequently present together with this kind of discharge. To correctly identify and treat the infection, you must seek medical assistance as soon as you see a yellow discharge coming from the penis. Gonorrhea is a common cause of urethritis in men and requires prompt antibiotic treatment to prevent complications such as epididymitis or prostatitis (Workowski & Bolan, 2015).

Clear Discharge without Pain

A clear discharge in men that is not related to sexual arousal and occurs without pain might still warrant medical evaluation. This type of discharge could indicate non-infectious conditions such as irritation from soaps or lotions or early signs of an infection that has not yet developed further symptoms. While often not as alarming as yellow discharge, any persistent clear discharge in a male without a clear cause should be discussed with a healthcare professional.

Green Discharge from the penis

Green penile discharge can suggest an infection with Trichomonas vaginalis, the causative agent of Trichomoniasis. Although more commonly diagnosed in women, men can also be carriers and exhibit symptoms such as greenish discharge, which is typically less pronounced. Trichomoniasis in men can lead to urethritis and, if left untreated, may contribute to complications such as prostatitis or infertility 

Red discharge from The Penis

Red or pink penile discharge, indicating the presence of blood, is a concerning symptom that could point to trauma, urethritis, or severe infections. Blood in the discharge can result from conditions such as urethral stricture, prostatitis, or, in rare cases, urethral cancer. The presence of red or pink discharge necessitates immediate medical evaluation to determine the underlying cause.

Brown discharge from the penis

Brown penile discharge usually suggests the presence of old blood, which could indicate a long-standing infection or injury within the urinary tract. The brown colour results from the oxidation of blood retained in the body for a period before being expelled. Chronic urethritis or complications from previous injuries could cause brown discharge.

Gray penile discharge

Gray penile discharge, although rare, can be associated with bacterial infections like bacterial vaginosis when the bacteria are transmitted to men during sexual intercourse. This condition, more common in women, can occasionally affect men and cause a greyish discharge. Other potential causes include sexually transmitted infections or chronic bacterial prostatitis, where the discharge might also have a characteristic odor.

Cloudy Penile Discharge

Cloudy penile discharge is often a sign of a urinary tract infection (UTI) in men. The cloudiness is due to the presence of pus or other immune cells as the body attempts to fight off the infection. Men with UTIs may experience additional symptoms such as burning during urination, frequent urges to urinate, or lower abdominal discomfort (Flores-Mireles et al., 2015).

Discharge Associated with Urinary Symptoms

Some men might experience discharge in conjunction with urinary symptoms like pain, burning, or frequent urination. This may be because of a urinary tract infection (UTI) or other conditions affecting the urinary tract. If discharge from the penis is coupled with these symptoms, it is essential to see your doctor for a thorough evaluation and treatment.

Here is a comprehensive list of penile discharge colours and their possible causes:

Discharge Color		Possible Causes
White		Fungal infection (e.g., Candida)
Yellow		Gonorrhea
Green		Trichomoniasis
Clear		Normal or non-infectious irritation (e.g., due to physical irritation, allergies, or mild infection)
Red		Blood in the discharge due to trauma, urethritis, severe infections, urethral stricture, prostatitis, or urethral cancer
Brown		Old blood, which could indicate a long-standing infection or injury in the urinary tract
Gray		Bacterial vaginosis bacteria (rarely, when transmitted to males during sexual intercourse), sexually transmitted infections, bacterial or fungal infections, prostatitis, or allergic reactions.
Pink		Light bleeding, possibly due to minor trauma, infection, or inflammation
Cloudy		Possible urinary tract infection (UTI) or other infections causing pus in the discharge

What Medications Can Cause Penile Discharge in Men?

Certain medications can lead to penile discharge as a side effect. Antibiotics can disrupt the natural balance of bacteria, leading to secondary infections that might cause discharge. Diuretics, which are often used to treat high blood pressure or fluid retention, can change the body’s fluid balance, occasionally leading to a clear discharge from the penis. Some antidepressants might also affect hormone levels or fluid regulation, potentially causing discharge.

Antibiotics leading to discharge from the penis

While antibiotics are primarily used to treat infections, they can sometimes disrupt the normal flora of the genital area, leading to secondary infections such as yeast infections, which can cause penile discharge. This is particularly true with broad-spectrum antibiotics like tetracyclines or fluoroquinolones.

Diuretics and penile discharge

Diuretics, also known as water pills, are used to treat high blood pressure, heart failure, and other conditions. They increase urine production, which can sometimes lead to irritation of the urethra and result in discharge. Additionally, by causing dehydration, diuretics may make the urinary tract more susceptible to infections, indirectly leading to discharge.

Steroids causing penile discharge

Systemic corticosteroids, often used to treat inflammatory conditions, can suppress the immune system, making individuals more prone to infections, including those that can cause penile discharge.

Antifungals

While antifungal medications are used to treat fungal infections, paradoxically, some antifungal treatments, especially when used topically, can cause irritation or allergic reactions that may lead to discharge.

Chemotherapy Agents and discharge from the penis

Certain chemotherapy drugs can lead to immunosuppression, making the body more susceptible to infections, including those that cause penile discharge. Additionally, some chemotherapy drugs can cause direct irritation to the urinary tract.

Alpha-Blockers and penile ejaculation

Medications like tamsulosin, used to treat benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH), can cause retrograde ejaculation, where semen enters the bladder instead of exiting through the penis. This condition may sometimes be confused with discharge when semen is expelled with urine.

Hormonal treatments

Medications that affect hormone levels, such as those used in hormone replacement therapy or for the treatment of prostate cancer, can alter the normal functioning of the reproductive system, potentially leading to discharge.

Psychiatric medications

Some antidepressants and antipsychotics can cause sexual side effects, including changes in semen consistency or discharge due to altered nerve function or hormonal imbalances.

If penile discharge occurs while taking any medication, it is important to consult a healthcare provider to determine whether the medication is the cause and to discuss possible alternatives or additional treatments.

How to treat discharge in men?

Treatment for penile discharge in men depends on the underlying cause, whether a fungal infection, a bacterial infection, or an allergic reaction. Identifying the specific cause is crucial for determining the appropriate treatment method.

Antifungal Medications

• Antifungal drugs are often the best treatment for males whose penile discharge is caused by a fungal infection like yeast infection. Yeast infections can cause a clear sticky discharge male after urination and are often accompanied by itching, redness, and swelling around the tip of the penis. 
• Topical lotions applied directly to the afflicted area, like Clotrimazole or Miconazole, are standard antifungal therapies. 
• Oral antifungal drugs such as fluconazole may be prescribed in more severe situations.
• Suppose a man notices that he only has discharge in the morning when he squeezes the tip of the penis, and other symptoms accompany it. In that case, he should seek medical advice to determine if a yeast or fungal infection is present. 
• Early treatment with antifungal medications can help clear the infection and prevent it from spreading.

Steroids for Allergies

• Sometimes, penile discharge can result from an allergic reaction to soaps, lotions, or other products that come into contact with the skin. In such cases, steroid medications can reduce inflammation and alleviate symptoms. A clear sticky discharge male after urination could indicate irritation caused by an allergic reaction. 
• Steroid creams like hydrocortisone can help soothe irritated skin and reduce discharge by addressing the inflammation.
• If you are experiencing male discharge due to an allergy, it is also essential to identify and avoid the triggering substance. By eliminating exposure to the allergen and using prescribed steroids, the symptoms can be effectively managed.

Antibiotics for Infections

• Antibiotics are the primary treatment for bacterial infections that cause penile discharge, such as gonorrhoea or chlamydia, which are sexually transmitted (STIs). These infections can cause various symptoms, including a clear sticky discharge after urination or even white or yellow discharge, depending on the type of infection. For example, gonorrhoea often causes a yellowish discharge, while chlamydia might lead to a more transparent, mucus-like discharge.
• The treatment of white discharge in males often involves antibiotics like azithromycin or doxycycline, which are effective against chlamydia.
•  For gonorrhoea, a combination of antibiotics, such as ceftriaxone and azithromycin, is typically recommended to eradicate the infection.
•  Completing the whole course of antibiotics is crucial to prevent the disease from recurring or becoming resistant to treatment.

How do you diagnose penile discharge?

Diagnosing penile discharge involves a combination of patient history, physical examination, and various laboratory and imaging tests to find out the exact cause of the symptom. Whether the discharge appears as a cloudy male discharge or is a penile discharge with no STD, a thorough diagnostic process is essential for identifying the appropriate treatment and effectively addressing the underlying condition.

Medical History and Physical Examination

• The first steps in diagnosing penile discharge are thoroughly examining the patient and taking a thorough medical history. 
• The doctor will question the patient’s symptoms, sexual history, recent exposures, and any accompanying symptoms like itching or pain while urinating. They may also ask, “What does penile discharge look like?”
•  The patient will be asked to describe the appearance of the discharge, whether it is clear, cloudy, white, yellow, or bloody.
• A cloudy discharge male may suggest an infection, such as a UTI or a sexually transmitted infection (STI). In contrast, a penile discharge with no STD might indicate non-infectious causes like balanitis, prostatitis, or urethral irritation. 
• A physical examination of the genital area will help identify any signs of inflammation, lesions, or anatomical abnormalities contributing to the discharge.

Laboratory Tests and Microscopic Examination

• After the initial assessment, laboratory tests are often necessary to pinpoint the cause of penile discharge.
• One of the most common tests is a urethral swab. During this test, a small swab is inserted into the urethra to obtain a sample of the discharge. This sample is then sent to a laboratory for microscopic examination and culture to identify the presence of bacteria, fungi, or other pathogens.
• For instance, if a UTI-discharge male is suspected, a urinalysis may also be performed to detect the presence of white and red blood cells or bacteria in the urine, which could indicate a urinary tract infection. In certain instances, extremely sensitive and accurate nucleic acid amplification tests (NAATs) may be used to test urine and chlamydia.

Blood Tests

• Blood tests are also part of the diagnostic process to check for systemic infections or to rule out other potential causes of penile discharge. Tests for HIV, syphilis, and hepatitis may be conducted, mainly if there is a concern about an STI. 
• Blood tests can also help identify inflammatory markers that suggest a more generalised infection or other health conditions.

Imaging Studies

• In some instances where the diagnosis remains unclear after initial testing, imaging studies may be recommended.
• Ultrasound or MRI scans of the pelvic area can help identify anatomical abnormalities, abscesses, or other conditions contributing to the discharge. 
• Imaging is beneficial in diagnosing conditions like prostatitis or urethral strictures, which may not be immediately apparent during a physical examination or laboratory testing.

What are the complications of penile discharge?

Penile discharge may be a sign of various underlying health conditions, and if not correctly diagnosed and treated, it can lead to several serious complications. Understanding these potential complications is vital for timely medical intervention and preventing further health issues. The complications associated with penile discharge can be broadly categorised into infection-related complications, reproductive health issues, and psychological and social impacts.

Infection-Related Complications

Penile discharge often indicates an infection, such as a sexually transmitted infection (STI) or urinary tract infection (UTI). If these infections are not treated timely, they can lead to more severe health problems.

• Ascending Infections: An untreated infection causing penile discharge can spread upward in the reproductive and urinary systems. For example, diseases like gonorrhoea and chlamydia can ascend from the urethra to the prostate gland, leading to prostatitis or the epididymis, causing epididymitis. These conditions can cause significant pain and swelling and can potentially result in infertility if left untreated.
• Systemic Infections: In some cases, infections that start as localised penile discharge can spread throughout the body, leading to bacteremia (bacteria in the blood) or sepsis, a severe, life-threatening condition. If not treated urgently, this can cause widespread inflammation, organ dysfunction, and even death.
• Chronic Urethritis: Persistent or recurrent infections can lead to chronic urethritis, a long-term inflammation of the urethra. This condition can cause ongoing symptoms such as pain during urination, continuous or intermittent penile discharge, and discomfort. Chronic urethritis can also lead to the formation of urethral strictures, narrowed sections of the urethra caused by scar tissue. This can cause difficulty urinating and increase the risk of recurrent infections.

Reproductive Health Issues

Untreated penile discharge caused by infections, especially STIs like gonorrhoea and chlamydia, can significantly impact male reproductive health.

• Infertility: STIs that cause penile discharge can lead to swelling and scarring in the reproductive organs, including the testes and epididymis. This can obstruct sperm transport and result in reduced fertility or infertility. The damage to these structures can be permanent if not treated early, making it crucial to address any signs of penile discharge promptly.
• Transmission of Infections to Partners: If the penile discharge is due to an STI and remains untreated, it can easily be transmitted to sexual partners, increasing their risk of developing complications such as pelvic inflammatory disease (PID). PID can cause severe reproductive complications in women, including chronic pelvic pain, ectopic pregnancy, and infertility.

Psychological and Social Impacts

In addition to physical health complications, penile discharge can have profound psychological and social effects.

• Anxiety and Emotional Distress: Men experiencing penile discharge may suffer from anxiety and emotional distress, mainly if the discharge is constant and accompanied by other symptoms like pain or foul odour. Concerns about potential STIs, long-term health implications, and the impact on sexual health can lead to significant stress.
• Social Stigma and Relationship Difficulties: Penile discharge, mainly when caused by an STI, can lead to social stigma and embarrassment. This can make individuals feel ashamed or reluctant to seek medical help. The presence of discharge can also strain intimate relationships, causing concerns about sexual health and fears of transmitting an infection to a partner.
• Impact on Sexual Health and Function: The physical discomfort and psychological stress associated with penile discharge can adversely affect sexual health and function. Men may experience reduced libido, difficulties in achieving or maintaining an erection, or other sexual dysfunctions, further contributing to emotional distress and relationship issues.

When should I see a doctor?

Clear penile discharge that occurs during sexual arousal, either before or after sex, is generally considered normal. However, discharge that happens without any arousal can be a sign of a problem. This abnormal discharge may appear yellow or green, indicating a possible sexually transmitted infection (STI) like chlamydia or gonorrhoea. A cloudy discharge could suggest a urinary tract infection (UTI) or urethritis, while a bloody discharge might be associated with prostatitis. A thick, cheesy discharge could result from an accumulation of smegma, a natural substance found under the foreskin.

It’s essential to consult a healthcare professional if you notice any discharge that is not clear and related to sexual arousal. This is particularly true if there are additional infection-related symptoms present along with the discharge, such as:

• Burning or pain during urination
• Frequent urination
• Dark or unusually coloured urine
• Pain in the genital area
• Rash, swelling, or warts on the penis
• Flu-like symptoms, including fever, chills, or feeling overheated
• Body aches, particularly in the stomach or back

FAQs about penile discharge in men