‘The first step is personal hygiene’
Good question! In this section, Health Net is looking for answers to frequently asked questions. This time: why do men regularly scratch their genitals?
Itching of the penis can have various causes. For example, it may be that the genitals itch due to lack of personal hygiene or that it sticks to the scrotum due to the heat. It can also mean a yeast infection.
According to Vanessa van Edwards, who has been researching human behavior for years, men sometimes reach for their pockets to protect their crotches. In this way they want to prevent unexpected events, such as a kick in the balls or a ball that is kicked by a child towards the crotch.
Insufficient hygiene
A common reason for an itchy penis is lack of personal hygiene. Because if the foreskin is not cleaned regularly, sebum secretion (smegma) accumulates. Often some urine remains under the foreskin after urination. Together with the sebum secretion, this can cause a foul odor, itching, redness, irritation and eventually inflammation. The solution for this is to wash the genitals with lukewarm water at least once a day.
To sweat
When a man sweats, the penis can stick to the scrotum. This is experienced as an unpleasant feeling and it can then help to ‘pick’ at the cross. It is also possible that the skin will chafe in several places when it sweats. This can cause a red rash that burns and itches. This can often be solved with an ointment.
Underpants
If men exercise regularly, the underpants can creep up. The crotch is often used to put the underpants back on (or to attempt to do so). It is also possible that ‘the thing’ is not in the right place. Then they put him right.
Shave
Men who shave their bottoms can also suffer from razor bumps and itchy skin. This is often the result of using an old or dull razor. Therefore, always make sure you have a clean and sharp blade. Men can also suffer from the hair growing back if they shave against the direction of hair growth. This can cause small wounds or bumps. This can be prevented by rinsing the skin with cold water (this closes the skin pores), applying body lotion or skin oil after shaving and if they suffer from sensitive skin, use a product that reduces skin irritation.
irritation
When irritated, men also regularly scratch their crotch. Sensitive skin can be irritated by contact with latex condoms, lubricants and spermicides, soaps, shower gels or shampoos, disinfectants, antiseptics and ointments. Certain washing powders and fabric softeners can also cause irritation, as can new underwear or feminine hygiene sprays. Try to stay away from these products, they will also be less itchy.
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