What is Infections of the Penis

INFECTIONS OF THE PENIS Meaning

The penis is not only a urogenital organ in the man but also an important organ from the perspective of sexual health. It is responsible for a healthy sexual life and enables a man to maintain erections, ejaculate and most importantly reproduce.¹

Infection of the penis can create health issues that will impact other aspects of health as well. It leads to sexual dysfunctions, causes stress and problems in relationship.¹ Health issues related to the penis, can create problems with self confidence.

As per Ayurveda, infections of the penis are categorized as Upadamsha (i.e a condition that presents as pus in genitals). The cause behind these infections are⁴

• Abrasions caused by any handling
• Injury caused due to scratches by nails
• Injury caused due to teeth/bites
• Unhygienic conditions of the genitalia (e.g unclean genitalia)
• Excessive indulgence in sexual activities
• Infection transmitted through sexual contact (from vaginal infections)
• Improper/unethical sexual indulgence
  

Ayurveda classifies this disease into five types depending on which of the doshas are vitiated and the resultant symptoms. These are⁴

1. Vataja Upadamsha – Pricking sensation, pain, black skin lesions
2. Pittaja upadamsha – yellow discoloration, pus formation
3. Kaphaja upadamsha – itching, swelling
4. Sannipathaja upadamsha – combination of features of above three
5. Raktaja upadamsha - yellow discoloration, pus formation, gangrenous lesions