Some degree of penis odor is common in many men and while it can cause embarrassment when the trousers fall, in most cases it’s not a major health issue. However, in some cases that rank penis odor may be an indication or result of diabetes. Maintaining appropriate penis health can help to eliminate the odor issue, but if diabetes is a suspected cause, seeing a doctor is highly recommended.

Why penis odor?

Most often, a smelly penis occurs due to an accumulation of bacteria from sweat, as well as to the aroma attached to dried fluids such as urine or semen.

The groin is a high-heat area by nature. The thatch of pubic hair that surrounds it creates insulation to keep the penis and sack warm, but it also encourages the production of sweat. Add to this the impact of being kept beneath two layers of clothing and nestled snugly between the thighs and it’s easy to see why there’s so much heat and, consequently, sweat in the area.

Even men who make a point of shaking the penis after urinating may end up with some dried urine on the member. And normal daily erections may release some pre-seminal fluid which dries on the manhood. Both of these add to the potential for penis odor.

Diabetes and penis odor

How does diabetes enter the picture where a potently aromatic penis is concerned? It has to do with something called ketone bodies.

Ketone bodies are water-soluble molecules that are created in the liver. The liver takes fatty acids and creates ketone bodies, usually when there is an issue with accessing sufficient amounts of glucose. This creates an alternative source of energy for the body to use temporarily.

A person with type I diabetes mellitus will tend to produce a much greater quantity of ketone bodies than a typical person. When there is a greater quantity of ketone bodies than the body can properly metabolize, it creates a situation known as ketonuria.

If a person with diabetes has ketonuria, it is an indication that the diabetes is not being properly managed and adjustments need to be made to better control the disease. (A person can experience ketonuria without having diabetes, usually when he has an acute infection; however, persistent or chronic ketonuria frequently suggests a diabetic condition.)

One of the hallmarks of ketonuria is a very strong and pronounced smell. It is often described as being especially "fishy," although others classify it as "sour." If a guy notices an especially strong smell while urinating, it may be an indication that he is experiencing ketonuria.

When ketonuria is present, it’s especially important for a man to be careful of penis hygiene. Because the odor associated with ketonuria is so rank, small amounts of urine that dry on the penis can have a disproportionately strong effect. Shaking properly and applying a damp paper towel to the penis after urinating can help to avoid ketonuria-related odor emergencies.

Penis odor from diabetic ketonuria can be an issue, as can any sort of persistent penis odor. In addition to proper washing, it’s therefore crucial that a man regularly use a first-class penis health crème (health professionals recommend Man1 Man Oil) to address this issue. The crème must contain vitamin A, as that vitamin is especially well-known for its ability to conquer odor-causing bacteria, even in a sweatbox like the groin. As mentioned above, washing the area is also necessary, but too much washing runs the risk of depleting the organ of needed oils and nutrients. A crème that includes a combination of a high-end emollient (such as Shea butter) and a quality hydrator (such as vitamin E) can help to lock in the beneficial moisture that keeps the skin properly toned. With a potent crème like Man1 Man Oil, a man can help to banish penis odor.