Itching and Redness on Penis

[Keith108]

A few months ago I noticed small red places (not bumps) on my penis (after having sex with my wife).  At first, they were simply there with no discomfort, but a few days later the red places grew to be what looked like red "rashes."  These "rashes" are on my penis head and just below it.  The red places do itch a bit, but generally aren't too hard to live with.  I began having sex in November, but did not have this issue until February.  My wife and I use KY Intrigue and I feel like that could be the culprit, but we've used this lube since November.  However, it seems that this issue would have surfaced sooner if it were the lube causing the "rash."

In April I went to see my Doctor and he determined that I had a yeast infection.  He prescribed Nystatin cream, which reduced the inflamation, but did nothing to actually get rid of the "rash."  I went back to the doctor this past week and he prescribed Diflucan, which is apparently a common pill for yeast infections.  Here I am 5 days later and there is no change in my "rashes."  In fact, I have a new red spot.  The spots do scab, but it's a loose scab that's more flaky.

As an important side note, the rash (which never goes away) always seems to flare up after having sex (with the KY or without) and after I masturbate (with or without lube).

My question is... do I actually have a yeast infection or is it something else?  I am planning to get back with my doctor, but I wanted to see if there were any ideas here.  I hope he sends me to a dermatologist.

Thanks for the help and suggestions!  Please let me know if more details would help.

[Vanessa Lacuesta]

Hi

Is the skin condition localized on the head of the penis only?

This may still be a fungal infection. Fungal infections are usually recurrent given the right triggers. In your case, this may be true as the condition seems to recur each time after sexual activity. I suggest that you still continue with the antifungal cream if the condition responds to that. Apply 1% hydrocortisone thinly over the area also only during flare ups. Do not use the steroid for more than  week. If the condition persists ,then abstain from sexual activity until this has completely resolved.

[Keith108]

I should also add that I am circumcised and have good hygiene habits.  However, there have been times that I did not bathe after sex.