Urology in Lagos
Discharge from the Penis
The signs, what causes it, and when to see a urology specialist in Lagos.
Signs to look for
Discharge from the Penis
- White, yellow, green or clear discharge from the tip of the penis
- Burning or stinging when passing urine
- Itching or irritation inside the penis
- Stains in the underwear
- Pain or swelling in a testicle
A discharge from the penis that is not urine or semen is a sign of urethritis, an inflammation of the tube that carries urine. In a sexually active man it is most often caused by gonorrhoea or chlamydia, and less often by trichomonas or Mycoplasma genitalium. It usually comes with burning on passing urine. Treated properly, it clears completely, but partly treated infections can scar the urethra and cause a narrowing years later, so the cause is worth finding.
Medically reviewed by Dr Debo Odulana, Founder and Chief Executive, Mezo. Last reviewed . This page is general information, not a diagnosis. Care is decided with you after an examination.
Symptoms
- White, yellow, green or clear discharge from the tip of the penis
- Burning or stinging when passing urine
- Itching or irritation inside the penis
- Stains in the underwear
- Pain or swelling in a testicle
When to See a Doctor
See a doctor for any discharge from the penis. A PCR test on the first urine of the day finds gonorrhoea and chlamydia. See a doctor the same day for a painful swollen testicle, fever, or joint pain with a rash. After a possible exposure to HIV in the last 72 hours, go to a hospital for PEP first.
Treatment options
- A PCR test on a first-catch urine sample, with a swab culture where needed
- Treatment matched to the cause, often starting the same day
- A single injection of ceftriaxone for gonorrhoea, in line with current WHO guidance
- Doxycycline for chlamydia
- Treatment of partners, and no sex until a week after treatment
- Further tests if the discharge does not settle
Common Questions
Is penile discharge always an STI?
Most often it is, in a sexually active man, but not always. Some urinary infections and irritation can cause it too. A urine PCR test settles it.
Can I just take antibiotics from the chemist?
The wrong antibiotic can quieten the discharge while the infection carries on, and gonorrhoea resists many common tablets. A test means the right treatment the first time.
Is sperm leakage the same as discharge?
No. A little semen after an erection or on straining is usually normal. A discharge that stains your underwear, or comes with burning, is not, and needs a test.
Need Help?
Discree, Mezo's private sexual health practice. Tests collected at home, a doctor by video, and nothing on your statement that says health.
Talk to a doctor privately, ₦15,000Complete STI screen with PCR, ₦99,500Medical Disclaimer: This information is for educational purposes only and does not replace professional medical advice. Always consult a qualified healthcare provider for diagnosis and treatment.