What's the matter with the white dirt on the glans?

White dirt on the glans may be smegma, which is usually caused by factors such as excessive foreskin, poor local hygiene, fungal or bacterial infection, etc. It can be improved by strengthening cleaning and applying topical drugs.

1. Foreskin is too long

When the foreskin is too long, the space between the inner plate of the foreskin and the glans is prone to accumulation of shed epithelial cells and secretions, forming white smegma. In this case, the foreskin needs to be turned over and washed with warm water every day. Circumcision may be considered if necessary. If it is accompanied by redness, swelling and pain, it may be related to balanitis and requires medical examination.

2. Poor hygiene

Incomplete cleaning will cause sebaceous gland secretions to mix with urine residue, forming white dirt on the coronal sulcus of the glans penis. It is recommended to gently wash the perineum daily with a neutral lotion and avoid using harsh soaps. Keep the area dry after washing and choose breathable cotton underwear.

3. Fungal infection

Candida albicans infection may cause a white, filmy discharge from the glans penis, along with itching or burning. After diagnosis, antifungal drugs such as miconazole nitrate cream, clotrimazole ointment or bifonazole solution can be used under the guidance of a doctor. Partners need to be treated simultaneously to prevent cross-infection.

4. Bacterial infection

A streptococcal or staphylococcal infection may cause a white, purulent discharge from the glans penis that may be red, swollen, hot and painful. The pathogen needs to be confirmed through secretion testing, and the doctor may prescribe antibiotic topical preparations such as erythromycin ointment, mupirocin ointment, or fusidic acid cream. Sexual intercourse is prohibited during treatment.

5. Allergic reaction

Contact with allergenic substances such as condoms and detergents may cause allergic dermatitis of the glans, causing white scales and itching. Stop using the suspected allergenic product immediately, rinse with water and apply hydrocortisone cream locally. Severe allergies require oral loratadine tablets.

Daily care should be taken to keep the perineum clean and dry, and avoid wearing tight chemical fiber underwear. When persistent discharge, ulcers or painful urination occur, you should promptly seek medical advice from a urology department or dermatology department to rule out sexually transmitted diseases such as gonorrhea and non-gonococcal urethritis. Do not use strong hormone ointments on your own without a clear diagnosis.