According to pretty much every man in the world, there is no pain like the pain possible from a sore penis. It can be distracting, make a man extra sensitive and emotional, and can cause things like lost sleep, difficulty walking, and a sabbatical from all kinds of activities. Thankfully, a sore penis is a fairly common thing and not something to be alarmed about in most cases. This article covers five common causes of a sore penis, how to make the pain go away, and how to prevent it in the future.

1) Bad Hygiene - One of the foremost culprits when it comes to a sore penis is nothing more than poor hygiene. Men who take a day or three off from basic washing and grooming each day are more likely to suffer some redness, irritation, or worse after a film of sweat, dirt, and bodily fluids build up on and under penile skin. The skin can then get inflamed and itchy and soreness can make way for actual pain. Cleanse immediately with warm water and a gentle motion until all of the dirt, debris, and smegma are gone. Apply a penis health crème to promote healing. Vow to improve hygiene habits going forward.

2) Overuse - It’s the most fun cause for pain - overuse. Whether it’s too much self-gratification or a particularly vigorous weekend with a lover, when a penis gets a lot of exercise, it ends up quite sore just like any other muscle. The best way to cope is to use some pain reliever and give the penis a rest until it is pain-free. Some men also find a warm (not hot) bath can also soothe the overworked member.

3) Allergies - Allergic reactions can make the penis very red, irritated, and sore, and can often be accompanied by a rash. Allergies can be to anything from laundry detergent to latex condoms to something out in the woods. See a doctor to perform an allergy test so that potential allergens can be avoided in the future. Usually a cortisone cream and some "airing out" can help an allergic reaction. If experiencing extreme pain or swelling, seek medical help immediately.

4) Psoriasis or eczema - Men who have psoriasis or eczema on other parts of their bodies may also develop symptoms on the penis. Follow treatment as directed by a medical professional. It’s also been noted that crèmes with vitamins A and E can help.

5) Urethritis - Urethritis is a condition where the urethra, which is the tube that carries urine from the bladder to outside the body, becomes inflamed and irritated. Semen also passes through the urethra. This inflammation is caused by foreign bacteria. In addition to pain and swelling, there can also be pain while urinating and a frequent urge to urinate. Urethritis is also sometimes a symptom of an STI. Treatment includes either antibiotics or antiviral medication.

How to Prevent Penis Pain

When it comes to preventing penis pain, a little consistency goes a long way. Exercise the muscle frequently but be mindful of how hard and often it’s used and give it a rest from time to time. Also, be sure to practice safe sex and talk to a sexual partner about their history.

Establish good hygiene habits when it comes to the penis. Wash the area regularly with a gentle cleanser and a thorough eye. Then apply a specially formulated penis health crème (health professionals recommend Man 1 Man Oil, which has been clinically proven safe and mild for skin) to the penis. These special crèmes contain natural moisturizers like Shea butter, and are rich in vitamins like A, B, C, D, and E, leaving the skin strong and supple.