User:Mr. Ibrahem/Penile discharge

Penile discharge is any fluid from the urethra at the end of the penis that is not urine or semen. It may be purulent or bloody. Associated symptoms may include burning with urination or a desire to urinate frequently.

Common causes include gonorrhea, chlamydia, balanitis, prostatitis, and epididymitis. Other causes include trichomoniasis, irritation, reactions to soap, and reactive arthritis. In up to a third of cases the cause is unclear. Risk factors include being sexually active under the age of 25, having a recent new sexual partner, being uncircumcised, or having unprotected sex.

Diagnosis can be supported by a swab of the discharge for bacterial culture. In gonorrhea the discharge may be white, yellow, or green. Testing for other STIs such as HIV/AIDS, syphilis, and hepatitis C is often recommended.

Treatment generally begins with antibiotics to cover the potential for gonorrhea and chlamydia. Antibiotics used often include ceftriaxone and azithromycin. Sexual contacts may also require treatment. Penile discharge is common. Mentions of penile discharge date back to at least the old Testament in Leviticus 15 (528-332 BC).