Problems with the tip of the penis (glans penis)

What is it?

Problems with the tip of the penis (glans penis)

Various rashes and discoloration of the glans penis (head of the penis) occur and are very treatable, although they may look very worrying to the individual. An accurate diagnosis followed by treatment, usually in the form of topical creams or sometimes circumcision, may cure the problem.

Balanitis

is an inflammation of the end of the penis

1 in 25

boys are affected with balanitis at some time in their lives

1 in 30

uncircumcised men are affected with balanitis at some time in their lives

circumcision

may cure the problem

problems with tip of the penis (glans penis)

Overview

Balanitis means inflammation (redness, irritation and soreness) at the end of the penis.

There are many different causes which include infection (sexually transmitted infection, other bacterial infections or thrush), skin irritation and certain skin conditions.

The treatment of balanitis will depend on the underlying cause.

I think I have a problem with tip of my penis (glans penis)

What is the next step?

Book a consultatation with one of our highly experienced doctors. They will be able to give you an accurate diagnosis.

Usually it is easy to diagnose balanitis by the red and inflamed look of the end of the penis (the glans). In some cases the likely cause can be determined by the look of the inflammation. So, the cause can be diagnosed immediately and treatment given straightaway.

If the cause is unclear, or the balanitis does not clear with treatment further tests will be taken.

If you have recurring balanitis and have a condition where the foreskin does not pull back (retract) over the glans (a phimosis), an option is to be circumcised to remove the foreskin. If this is the case, we will discuss the options with you in more detail.

Book an appointment

problems with tip of the penis (glans penis)

Learn more

What are the treatments for problems with tip of the penis (glans penis)

An anti-yeast cream or a course of anti-yeast tablets is a common treatment if the balanitis is caused by candida
Antibiotics will clear infection caused by germs (bacteria), including certain STIs.
A mild steroid cream to reduce inflammation is useful for balanitis caused by allergies or irritants. Sometimes a steroid cream is used in addition to anti-yeast or antibiotic medication to reduce inflammation caused by infection. (Note: if there is infection of the end of the penis (the glans) then a steroid cream should not be used alone, as steroids can make infection worse.)

Circumcision I

If you have recurring balanitis and have a condition where the foreskin does not pull back (retract) over the glans (a phimosis), an option is to be circumcised to remove the foreskin.

Circumcision II

What are the treatment costs?

Consultation costs

Consultations: £195

Follow up appointments: £150

Treatment costs

Cost of Circumcision under general anaesthetic as a day case: £1869

Cost of Circumcision under local anaesthetic as an outpatient: £850

If you have any further queries regarding finance and your treatment cost – then please contact us on 0117 980 41 18