What Causes Itching in a Man's Private Parts?

Medically Reviewed on 7/14/2021
What causes itching in a man's private parts
Itching in a man’s private parts can be a symptom of many different conditions, including jock itch, eczema or sexually transmitted diseases. While the itching may go away with simple measures, treatment and medication may be needed in some cases.

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:

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