Although an itch on any part of the body is frustrating, itchy private parts add more exasperation and embarrassment. If you have ever experienced itching in and around your genitals, then you might know that the more you scratch the area, the more irritable it becomes.
Itching in a man’s private parts can be caused by several reasons, such as:
- Tinea cruris, also called jock itch, is a type of fungal infection that causes redness and itching in the warm and moist areas of the body, such as the groins, buttocks and inner thighs.
- Eczema and other types of dermatitis are allergies that may be caused by contact allergy, moist tissue wipes, soap allergies, friction between the groin parts and so on.
- Hair regrowth after shaving can sometimes cause itching and irritation.
- Skin irritation, which is caused by tight or non-breathable undergarments.
- Psoriasis, which is a condition that causes scaly skin rashes to appear anywhere on the body, including the groin area.
- Sexually transmitted diseases, such as genital herpes, chlamydia, syphilis and gonorrhea.
- Excessive sweating.
- Skin friction, which is caused by being obese or overweight or during sexual activity.
- Skin allergies, which are caused by detergents or other products, such as talc, or even antiseptics, such as Dettol.
- Urinary tract infections (UTI).
- Lichen sclerosus is an uncommon but chronic condition that creates patchy, white skin that appears thinner than normal.
- Allergy to latex condoms.
- Uncontrolled diabetes.
- Pubic lice.
- Scabies.
How to avoid itching in a man’s private parts
Itchy private parts are often aggravated by excessive sweating, wearing tight undergarments and being obese or overweight.
To avoid itching in or around a male’s genital area, they must:
- Keep the genital area clean and dry. Dry the area gently but thoroughly after taking a bath or swimming.
- Use plain water or a mild cleaner, such as a gentle soap or a soap-free cleanser, to rinse the genital area with water. Aggressive or overcleaning must be avoided because it can irritate the sensitive area.
- Wear clean, loose and breathable undergarments, especially those made of breathable organic cotton.
- Wash the undergarments well and ensure they are dry and free of detergent residues before putting them on.
- Change the undergarments after at least 24 hours or more frequently if they become damp or soggy.
- Wash the penis including the area under the foreskin (if uncircumcised), especially after using the toilet.
- Use condoms while having sex to prevent the risk of sexually transmitted infections.
- Avoid using perfumes or scented personal care products in your private area.
How do you treat itching in a man's private parts?
Generally, itching or irritation in the private parts goes away on its own with simple measures, such as:
- Washing the affected area with clean and warm water
- Keeping the area dry
- Wearing well-fitting and breathable undergarments
If you are obese or overweight, reducing your weight may also help control the infection.
If the itching keeps recurring, consult a doctor. Treatment will target the cause of infection and your doctor may prescribe medication to control the itching. Your doctor may even advise you to avoid using any personal care products in the genital area that might aggravate the itching. Depending on the cause of the infection, they may prescribe antifungal medications, antiviral medications or antibiotics.
Genital itching may also be aggravated by diabetes and other conditions that weaken immunity. In the case of diabetes, the doctor will prescribe medications and suggest lifestyle changes to control your blood sugar levels. Phototherapy may be used if the itching is due to lichen sclerosus. Other underlying conditions, such as eczema or psoriasis, will also be addressed.
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Medically Reviewed on 7/14/2021
References
Cleveland Clinic. Sexual Health: Genital Itching. https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/diseases/12324-sexual-health-genital-itching
American Academy of Dermatology. 8 Reasons Your Groin Itches and How to Get Relief. https://www.aad.org/public/everyday-care/itchy-skin/itch-relief/relieve-groin-itch
American Academy of Dermatology. 8 Reasons Your Groin Itches and How to Get Relief. https://www.aad.org/public/everyday-care/itchy-skin/itch-relief/relieve-groin-itch
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