All penises have smells. It is natural and a normal function of the body to emit odors. However, a fishy-smelling penis is not natural. Although a temporary fishy odor (perhaps after having sex or swimming in a lake) may not be cause for concern, a lingering foul fragrance may be a sign of a deeper problem. Fortunately, not all causes of a smelly penis are serious and are often easy to remedy. Read on to find out what causes a fishy-smelling penis and how to fix it.

# 1: urinary tract infection (UTI)

It’s often thought of as just a post-game plague for women, but men can get a UTI as well. When bacteria are in the urinary tract, there is inflammation, a lot of discomfort, and often sour-smelling urine. In addition to the smell, men may also experience extreme pain and an increased need to urinate, pink urine, and pain in the side or back. Most of the time, a round of oral antibiotics can eliminate it.

# 2: yeast infection

Another cause that is often thought to be female only is candida, or a yeast infection. This occurs when the penis experiences an overgrowth of the Candida fungus and creates a fishy, ​​moldy smell. Yeast infections are also characterized by itching, thick white discharge, burning, and redness. They can be transmitted to and from sexual partners or simply be the result of poor hygiene. Treatment for candida is usually a drug called Diflucan, and it can sometimes take more than one round.

# 3: smegma

It even sounds a bit dirty. When most people think of a fishy penis, they think of smegma. Smegma is the accumulation of moisture, oils, and skin cells around the shaft of the penis in all men, and specifically under the foreskin in uncircumcised men. When left untreated, it freezes into a thick, whitish paste that leads to a red-hot penis (and not in a good way).

Smegma is caused by poor hygiene. Washing and keeping the penis loose and airy is the best way to get rid of smegma. However, if the foreskin does not retract or the swelling and irritation do not subside, consult a medical professional.

# 4: chlamydia

Chlamydia is an STI that is contracted by having vaginal, oral, or anal sex with someone who is already infected. In addition to a fishy-smelling penis, symptoms can also include swollen testicles, discharge, and a burning sensation when urinating. Treatment includes an antibiotic prescribed by a doctor.

# 5: Gonorrhea

Colloquially known as “The Clap,” gonorrhea is an STI that can affect the sexual organs, the anus, and the mouth. It is transmitted from partner to partner. In addition to a funky smell, other symptoms include burning urination, pain, itching, painful bowel movements, and a rainbow of discharge that can include white, yellow, or even green color. See your doctor right away for diagnosis and treatment, which can include both an injection and an oral medication.

8 tips to prevent a fishy penis

There are several easy ways to prevent a smelly penis. Incorporating them into a regular routine will ensure a clean and fresh penis.

1) Wash the penis daily, and additionally after sex or physical activity, with warm water and a mild cleanser. Rinse well and pat or air dry as rubbing can cause irritation.

2) When cleaning the penis, be sure to get into every nook and cranny. If you are not circumcised, be sure to remove the foreskin and clean it carefully to avoid a build-up of smegma.

3) Keep pubic hair neatly trimmed. Long pubic hair can contain strange odors from moisture, bacteria, and dirt.

4) Wear loose cotton underwear so your groin is not compressed and you have room to breathe.

5) Always have an open dialogue with your sexual partners about sexual health. Do not have sex with a person suspected of having an STI as evidenced by a rash, discharge, or other symptoms.

6) When you have sex, use condoms and a water-based lubricant to prevent infection and bacteria.

7) Use a specially formulated penis health cream (Health professionals recommend Man 1 Man Oil, which is clinically shown to be safe and gentle on the skin) to keep the penis hydrated and fresh. Use a cream with vitamin A for its antibacterial properties. Also look for a cream with natural emollients like shea butter and vitamin E to lock in moisture, leaving skin hydrated and supple.