Penis discharge
Quick facts:
- Discharge from the penis is usually a sign of infection.
- Some of these infections can be serious and may cause problems later in life if they are not treated.
If you are concerned about any discharge from the penis or have any other health concerns, you should see your doctor or sexual health clinic.
The urethra is the narrow small tube that passes from the bladder through the penis, allowing for the passage of urine. Ejaculate fluid (cum) passes through the urethra before and during ejaculation. This ejaculate fluid contains sperm produced in the testes and seminal fluid produced in a number of parts of the reproductive system including the prostate.
There are small glands in the surface of the head of the penis which produce a cheesy white material called smegma. This may accumulate under an uncircumcised foreskin. This is normal if there is no pain or unpleasant odour. Good hygiene ensures there is no build-up of bacteria so washing the area regularly is advised.
There can also be clear fluid that may drip from the penis when sexually excited (pre-cum). Discharge from the penis at any other time (i.e., when not sexually excited) is usually a sign of infection and you should see your doctor or sexual health clinic for a check-up. Sexually transmissible infections (STIs) can spread to other areas and lead to infertility and other problems.
Causes of discharge from the penis include:
- Urethritis
- Gonorrhoea
- Chlamydia
- Non-specific urethritis
- Acute prostatitis
- Infection under the foreskin of uncircumcised penises
- Warts at the opening of the urethra
- Herpes simplex virus ulcer at the opening of the urethra
- Something inserted into the urethra.
Skin irritation such as itchiness, redness, swelling, soreness, or other symptoms on or around the skin of the penis can also be caused by a fungal infection, psoriasis, or contact with soap or other substances. Some people may be allergic to latex in condoms and alternative condom products are available.
Prevention
Other resources
- For more information see Health Direct and for a range of health topics see the Healthy Male.
- For information on what STI tests you might need go to the StaySTIFree website.
- For short animations about common STIs, see Queensland Health's YouTube channel Your Sexual Health.
- For comprehensive information about safe sex, STIs, testing and treatment for young adults, see Stop the Rise of STIs.
- For videos and resources developed with Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities, see Young Deadly Free.
- Translated resources about STIs are available from the Ethnic Communities Council of Queensland.
Related content
Help and assistance
Get qualified health advice 24/7 for the cost of a local call 13 HEALTH (13 43 25 84).
This factsheet provides general information and is not intended to replace the need to see a health professional or have a sexual health check. For more information on sexual health please talk to a healthcare provider. A doctor, nurse or health worker can assist with:
- providing appropriate tests, treatment and information about how to prevent STIs
- helping people to ensure that their sexual partners get tested and treated.