Anytime a man sees a rash on his junk, it is cause for alarm, even if it’s not a severe cause. However, how can a man tell whether he just has a harmless rash or if it’s scabies on his penis? Let’s look very closely–because they’re microscopic–at what penis scabies are, how to tell if you have them, how to get rid of them, and then how to prevent them in the future.
Scabies on the Penis: Definition and Symptoms
Scabies is a highly contagious, itchy rash on the penis caused by microscopic mites called Sarcoptes scabiei. The first major sign of infection is intense itchiness in the genital area with small, pimply bumps that take up residence around the entire reproductive area. This rash shows up in between 4 to 6 weeks after a man is infested with these itty-bitty bugs, which is how long it takes them to bury into the skin and lay eggs. The rash is actually an allergic reaction to the mites. They sometimes leave tracks on the skin where they bury themselves.
Itching can worsen at night, and a man can also open himself up to secondary infections if he scratches too much due to penis scabies.
Scabies on the Penis: Transmission and Diagnosis
Scabies is highly contagious. It is spread most often through skin-to-skin contact, such as during sexual intercourse. A man can also get scabies if he comes in contact with infected bedding and clothing, though this is much less common.
To see if the rash is scabies on the penis or if it is something else, see a doctor as soon as possible. In addition to a physical exam, the doctor may take a small skin sample to review under a microscope. If the doctor sees the mites and eggs, it’s penis scabies.
Here are a few other things that cause an itchy rash if it’s not scabies on the penis:
– Folliculitis
– Lice
– Eczema
– Contact dermatitis
– Chancroid
– Flea bites
– Syphilis
Scabies on the Penis: Treatment
There are several ways your doctor may opt to treat penis scabies. You may be encouraged to take hot showers and baths each day. The doctor also may prescribe a topical ointment or steroid cream in addition to antibiotics or antihistamines to reduce the chances of infection and clear the penis scabies faster.
To stop scabies on the penis from spreading, wash all towels, bedding, and clothing in hot water that’s at least 122 degrees Fahrenheit, followed by drying on high heat for no less than 10 minutes. Vacuum things that can’t be washed, such as carpets and your mattress. Then be sure to clean the vacuum with bleach after disposing of the bag (if your vacuum uses one) to kill any leftover mites, as they can live up to 72 hours after leaving the body.
Of course, limit skin-to-skin contact and activities while healing.
Scabies on the Penis: Prevention
The simplest way to prevent penis scabies is to practice abstinence or safe sex. Don’t share towels or clothing with others. If you see the beginning of a rash, get it looked at fast to try to stop the spread.
Another way to prevent scabies is the practice of good penis hygiene. Be sure to wash the penis thoroughly daily (multiples times if needed) with warm water and a gentle cleanser. Rinse well and pat or air dry. Apply a penis health oil (health professionals recommend Man 1 Man Oil, which has been clinically proven safe and mild for skin) that has been created expressly for delicate penile skin. Look for an oil with vitamin A to protect against bacteria and infection, as well as other vitamins and nutrients to fortify and calm irritated skin.