Let’s face it: Men like to have sex - and why not? But sometimes that desire to hit the sack produces a sore penis, and that’s neither fun nor good for overall penis health . Sure, there are worse things that can happen, but a sore penis is a pain (literally). That’s why practicing a little prevention can help keep a sore penis at bay - or at least reduce the chances of it occurring.

So what are some of these sore penis prevention tips?

Protection

While this piece is really concerned with a sore penis that results from simple causes such as overuse, it’s true that one of the main causes of penile soreness is an STI. Using condoms when having sex is the most effective way of avoiding an STI - along with, of course, knowing the infection status of any partner before plunging in. Always be smart and use appropriate protections and precautions.

Lube

Does this even have to be said? Unfortunately, yes. Most of the time, a sore penis after sex (that is not caused by an STI, mind you) is the result of the penis getting rubbed a bit raw due to lack of sufficient lubrication. Sex is a delicate balance, all about getting the right amount of friction in the right place. Too much and soreness results. There is a wide variety of lubricants available; finding one that works for both partners is essential to preventing a sore penis. And remember: some lubricants, especially those that are water-based, will need to be reapplied with some frequency.

Take it slow, Joe

In addition to using lubricant, it usually helps if a guy takes his time and provides plenty of warm-up in advance. Foreplay is usually needed to help a woman become sufficiently aroused for easy penetration. But it also helps the man’s penis become naturally lubricated. So no matter how tempting, don’t rush things; let them take their proper time.

Change positions

They say variety is the spice of life - and changing up positions during a long sex session may be a good way to keep soreness away. If a couple employs the same position for an extended period of time, the same parts of the penis are being rubbed repeatedly. Switching to a new position may help stimulate a slightly different part of the penis in a manner that is still pleasing but that doesn’t result in soreness.

The same holds true for masturbation. If masturbating for a long time, it helps to switch hands or to change the number of fingers wrapped around the penis, as well as to vary strokes. So if a guy has been stroking for 15 minutes near the glans, perhaps spend some time lower down on the shaft for a while.

Practice good hygiene

A penis in good health is less likely to become sore. Washing regularly is important, of course, but think beyond that. For example, going commando may be fun, but if the penis rubs against rough fabrics like denim, it will get sore - and will become more so during sex. The same applies to using soaps or detergents with harsh chemicals or fragrances that can cause skin issues to appear on the penis, making it more susceptible to pain during sex.

Another hygiene tip on the sore penis prevention list is to regularly apply a superior penis health crème (health professionals recommend Man1 Man Oil, which is clinically proven mild and safe for skin) to the manhood. Use a crème that has excellent moisturizing power, i.e. one with both a high-end emollient (such as natural Shea butter) and a hydrating agent (such as vitamin E). The crème should also include L carnitine, a neuroprotective agent. A sore penis often results from peripheral nerve damage, which this ingredient is formulated to address.