Rash on penis

[Meyez]

My boyfriend and I used a condom with spermicide, usually its without spermicide. Later that evening we had unprotected vaginal sex for the first time.  Two days later he masturbated in the shower using soap.  The next morning he noticed a red rash on left side of the shaft, left testicle and also down onto his leg.  He went to the doctor, who thought it could be a bacterial infection from me, and prescribed Bactrim.  

Its been a week, and the rash is still bright red.  I've read some posts and wonder if it could be an allergy to the spermicide, a bacterial infection from me, a rash from friction or a reaction to the soap, or folliculitis.

He can't take the Bactrim, it makes him sick. When I've had a bacterial infection, I get an antibiotic that is for a couple of days, not a full course.

If you could please offer some suggestions... he is concerned, and so am I!

[Alan Rockoff, MD]

I doubt that this is an infection.  More likely, it's just irritation from friction, etc.  It's not that the antibiotic isn't working, just that there aren't bacteria for the antibiotic to kill.  I suggest mild cleansing and moisturizing, and perhaps a visit with a dermatologist, who can diagnose and prescribe an appropriate anti-inflammatory cream.  The redness itself means little--anytime there's a rash in a sensitive area like the groin, the skin can stay red for weeks, but then it goes away.  I think he should see someone who knows what the rash is, which should set him straight and make him better.  But I don't think he caught anything from you.

Take care.

Dr. Rockoff

[Meyez]

Thank you!  I will let him know and tell him to go to a dermatologist.  Its a relief... it was our first time unprotected, and I would hate to think that I have this effect on him!

Also, if it were a bacterial infection from me, would Flagyl be effective for a man, like it is for a woman's infection?

[joeschmo4]

I also have a similar question. I haven't masturbated in a couple weeks and recently the base of my uncircumcised penis has become pretty red, it hurts, and looks like some of the skin might be even peeling. What is it and what should I do? I know I should go to the doctor but I'm pretty ashamed to go, so could you just tell me what I might have from my description?