Posting

Posthitis is inflammation of the inner surface of the foreskin of the penis. It should not be confused with balanitis, which is inflammation of the glans penis. However, inflammation of the foreskin may occur together with inflammation of the glans. Simultaneous inflammation of the foreskin and glans penis is known as balanoposthitis.

Causes of Posthitis

One of the main causes of posthitis is the accumulation of smegma beneath the foreskin followed by infection. Smegma is a mixture of secretions produced by glands in the foreskin and dead epithelial cells. Posthitis is more common in men with inadequate genital hygiene or phimosis.

Posthitis may also develop due to irritation of the foreskin caused by urine, lubricants, soaps, or other irritating substances. Infections caused by microorganisms such as Streptococcus, Ureaplasma, Staphylococcus, and others may also contribute to the development of inflammation.

Symptoms of Posthitis

Some of the first symptoms of posthitis are itching and a burning sensation in the foreskin, as well as pain when retracting the foreskin.

Visible swelling and redness may occur, together with discomfort and pain in the glans penis during sexual intercourse.

In rare cases, patients may experience weakness, fever, and a general deterioration in well-being.