When pus discharges from the penis, many people tend to associate it with sexually transmitted infections (STIs). However, this condition can also be caused by other non-STI related issues. In fact, some fluids that appear like pus may simply be normal penile secretions that are not linked to any health disorder in men.
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Causes of Pus Discharge from the Penis
Pus discharge from the penis can result from several conditions—some serious, others not. What seems like pus might actually be harmless fluid, such as pre-ejaculate.
Here are some common causes of pus discharge from the penis you should be aware of:
1. Gonorrhea
Gonorrhea is a sexually transmitted infection caused by the Neisseria gonorrhoeae bacterium. This infection spreads through vaginal, oral, or anal sex.
It can affect both men and women and may be transmitted from a pregnant woman to her baby during vaginal delivery.
In men, gonorrhea can cause pus discharge from the penis. This symptom is why gonorrhea is commonly referred to as “the clap.”
Other symptoms in men include painful or burning urination, inflammation and tenderness in the testicular ducts, and pain in the prostate gland.
2. Chlamydia
Chlamydia is an STI caused by the Chlamydia trachomatis bacterium. It spreads through vaginal, anal, or oral sex with an infected person.
Pus discharge from the penis is one of the symptoms of chlamydia in men. It is often accompanied by penile pain, burning sensation during urination, swelling or infection in the testicular ducts, and tenderness or discomfort in the testicles.
3. Urethritis
While urinary tract infections (UTIs) are more common in women, men can also experience them. Among the different types of UTIs, urethritis is one that may lead to pus discharge from the penis.
Urethritis is inflammation of the urethra, caused by various factors—including gonorrhea, in which case it is called gonococcal urethritis. When not caused by gonorrhea, it is referred to as non-gonococcal urethritis (NGU).
NGU may be caused by adenovirus, irritation from certain products, urethral injury from catheter use, sexual activity or masturbation, or genital trauma.
Additional NGU symptoms may include penile pain and itching, burning sensation during urination, frequent urge to urinate, and penile tenderness when touched.
4. Prostatitis
Pus discharge from the penis can also result from prostatitis—an inflammation of the prostate gland, which produces seminal fluid. This condition may be caused by infection or trauma to the prostate.
In addition to pus discharge, prostatitis may cause penile pain. Urine may have a foul odor, appear bloody, and flow irregularly.
Acute prostatitis may resolve on its own or with treatment within days or weeks. Chronic prostatitis, however, can last for at least three months and often doesn’t completely go away—treatment focuses on symptom relief.
5. Balanitis
Balanitis is inflammation of the head of the penis. The most common cause is a fungal infection, but it can also result from irritants such as soap or harsh chemicals.
Two similar conditions are posthitis (inflammation of the foreskin) and balanoposthitis (inflammation of both the foreskin and glans penis).
Balanitis can lead to swelling of the glans, and in some cases, pus discharge.
Treatment depends on the cause. If caused by a fungal infection, the doctor may prescribe antifungal medication.
6. Pre-ejaculate Fluid
Pre-ejaculate, or precum, is a fluid released from the penis during sexual arousal. It is produced by the Cowper’s glands and typically appears in small amounts—often unnoticed.
Some individuals may mistake this fluid for pus. However, it is completely normal. Pre-ejaculate may or may not contain sperm, and its volume is usually minimal.
7. Smegma
Smegma is a buildup of thick white substance beneath the foreskin of an uncircumcised penis. It is composed of skin cells, sebum, and fluids.
Smegma forms naturally and helps lubricate the penis, reducing friction during sexual activity.
It can appear white or yellow. If not cleaned regularly, smegma may accumulate, causing discomfort. It may resemble pus discharge, but it is not.
Smegma also creates a moist and warm environment that can promote bacterial and fungal growth.
While smegma contains beneficial bacteria, lack of hygiene may allow harmful bacteria to overgrow, potentially causing unpleasant odor and infections—including UTIs—that can lead to pus discharge from the penis.
When to See a Doctor for Pus Discharge from the Penis
Not all penile discharge is a sign of a serious condition. What appears to be pus may simply be excessive smegma or pre-ejaculate fluid—both of which are normal.
However, pus discharge from the penis that is dangerous is usually accompanied by other bothersome symptoms. Contact a doctor if you also experience any of the following symptoms:
- Strong or foul odor
- Inflammation or swelling
- Painful urination
- Pain during sexual activity
- Fever or other signs of infection
Even if pus is not present, you should consult a doctor if you’re concerned about any unusual penile discharge. A healthcare provider can help determine the cause and provide an accurate diagnosis.
Dermatology and Venereology Specialists at Mandaya Royal Puri Hospital
If you would like to consult about pus discharge or other concerns related to penile health, you can meet with dermatology and venereology specialists at Mandaya Royal Puri Hospital:
1. dr. Wiwi Widjaya Chandra, Sp.KK
dr. Wiwi Widjaya Chandra, Sp.KK is a dermatology and venereology specialist who completed her medical and specialist training at the Faculty of Medicine, Universitas Indonesia.
She is experienced in procedures such as laser therapy, skin surgery, wart removal, melasma treatment, and burn care.
You can meet dr. Wiwi Widjaya Chandra, Sp.KK at Mandaya Royal Puri Hospital on:
- Monday: 09:00 – 13:00 WIB
- Thursday: 09:00 – 13:00 WIB
- Saturday: 09:00 – 12:00 WIB
2. Prof. Dr. dr. Lili Legiawati, Sp.D.V.E., Subsp.D.K.E
Prof. Dr. dr. Lili Legiawati, Sp.D.V.E., Subsp.D.K.E is a highly experienced dermatology and venereology specialist. She completed her general medical education, specialist training, doctoral degree, and subspecialist training in Cosmetic Dermatology at Universitas Indonesia.
Her expertise includes laser treatment, wrinkle therapy, burn care, skin tightening, and skin rejuvenation.
You can meet Prof. Dr. dr. Lili Legiawati, Sp.D.V.E., Subsp.D.K.E at Mandaya Royal Puri Hospital on:
- Tuesday: 17:00 – 19:00 WIB
- Thursday: 17:00 – 19:00 WIB
3. dr. Karin Rachmani, Sp.DVE
dr. Karin Rachmani, Sp.DVE is a dermatologist and venereologist who graduated from Universitas Indonesia for both general medical and specialist education. She treats a variety of skin conditions including burns, melasma, and wart removal.
You can meet dr. Karin Rachmani, Sp.DVE at Mandaya Royal Puri Hospital on:
- Tuesday: 17:00 – 20:00 WIB
- Wednesday: 17:00 – 20:00 WIB
- Friday: 14:00 – 17:00 WIB
4. dr. Melyawati Hermawan, Sp.DV
dr. Melyawati Hermawan, Sp.DV completed her general medical education at Atma Jaya Catholic University of Indonesia and specialist training in Dermatovenereology at Universitas Indonesia.
She is skilled in PicoWay laser treatments and manages various skin conditions including pediatric and geriatric skin disorders, infections, eczema, acne, dark spots, and skin tumors.
You can meet dr. Melyawati Hermawan, Sp.DV at Mandaya Royal Puri Hospital on:
- Monday: 14:00 – 16:00 WIB
- Tuesday: 13:00 – 15:00 WIB
- Wednesday: 12:00 – 14:00 WIB
- Thursday: 13:00 – 15:00 WIB
- Friday: 12:00 – 14:00 WIB
To make your visit easier, use the Chat via WhatsApp, Book Appointment feature, or download the Care Dokter app from Google Play or the App Store. This allows you to view queue numbers and access complete hospital information conveniently.
