Itching in Private Parts of Men, 9 Effective Home Remedies

Any sort of discomfort felt on or around your genitals can be quite annoying and inconveniencing. You need to identify the cause and seek relief immediately. In this article, I’ll talk about itching in private parts. As a men’s health site, our article provides pieces of information that are male-specific only. 

Irrespective of the reason, some home remedies can help offer comfort to the penis and testicle itching. But before we get to that, let’s look further at testicle and penile itching.

What Cause Itchy Scrotum?

Itchy testicles mostly referred to as itchy balls, can be very uncomfortable. The urge to scratch the itch can be overwhelming even when you are in public places. Of course, you may be hasty to find relief, but knowing what’s causing itchy balls can help you address the problem appropriately.

Similar to the penis, the scrotum or testicles are a sensitive part of your genitals. Sexually transmitted diseases and other conditions can cause an itch either in the testicles or on the skin that holds the testicles in place.

Are Itchy Testicles Caused by Medical Conditions or Poor Hygiene?

The male private parts are, in general, a very sensitive area. This is why we are educated about genital hygiene. Excessive sweating in the groin area can cause an itch, and so can going for a few days without bathing.

However, other than that, some medical conditions are also responsible for the same. Below we are going to look at all possible causes of itchy testicles.

The Common Causes of Itchy Testicles

Irritation

At the top of the list is irritation. When the skin around your genitals dries up, and you happen to walk for a long distance, the skin may get chaffed. On the other hand, if you exercise for relatively long periods, you may irritate the skin on your scrotum, causing an itch.

Wearing underwear made from rough materials can also cause chafing. Other symptoms that may accompany itching caused by irritation include a rash, redness, or surface-level cuts.

Fungal Infections

Fungal infections can be caused by poor hygiene and unprotected sex. Fungi, which mostly live in large colonies, can easily find their way into our bodies. If they happen to get to the area surrounding your genitals, then you can experience an itch.

Candida is a fungus that mostly affects the genitals. When its colony expands, it results in an infection whose sign include itchy testicles, difficulty urinating, burning sensation on the scrotum and penis, abdominal odor, dry and red skin.

Jock Itch

Jock itch is a common and extensive infection responsible for male genital area itch. This type of fungal infection mostly affects damp areas of the body, such as the genitals or feet. A jock itch mostly presents itself as a reddish rash. When temperatures get extremely hot, the urge to itch oneself may arise.

Genital Herpes

Genital herpes causing viruses can be spread through unprotected sex and direct contact with infected skin. When experiencing an outbreak of herpes, the testicles can get itchy, and blisters around your genitals may pop and turn into open sores.

Scabies

A scabies itch is more severe at night. This condition, caused by mites, occurs when you come into intimate contact with an infected person or direct skin. The thing about scabies is that the symptoms start manifesting a couple of weeks after infection. A rash may also appear.

Pubic Lice

You are already familiar with lice and how they can feed on your blood, leaving behind an itchy feeling. Well, there exists another type of lice that seeks refuge in your private parts. You can get lice by coming into contact with someone who has them.

But, they do not spread other types of infections. Having a pubic lice infestation can cause discomfort and itchiness on your genitals. To spot public lice, be on the lookout for bites on your scrotum.

Trichomoniasis

Though the symptoms of this bacterial infection never appear, Trichomoniasis has been known to manifest itself through itching and irritation of the genital area, inclusive of the testicles. Other symptoms are a pain when having sex and a yellow/green discharge.

Chlamydia

This type of STI can be spread through oral, vaginal, and anal sex. Symptoms include pain when urinating or having sex, discolored discharge from the penis tip, and a painful rectum.

Another distinct symptom of chlamydia is a swollen and painful testicle. One may also experience an itch on the testicles.

Genital warts

HPV isn’t usually easily noticeable because the bumps formed can be very tiny and may not itch. However, if you do have genital warts, they may form a cauliflower shape on your scrotum and start to itch.

Gonorrhea

As we wrap up on the causes of itchy testicles, let us dive into one of the most menacing reasons, gonorrhea. Similar to chlamydia, gonorrhea tends to affect one testicle making it to swell and itch.

This STI can be transmitted through unprotected sex and can affect your throat and genitals. Other symptoms of gonorrhea include pain while urinating and having sex, as well as a discharge from the penis.

What Causes Penile Itching?

Now that you are familiar with what may cause an itchy scrotum, let’s see some of the causes of an itchy penis. As mentioned earlier, the penis can start itching. This symptom can manifest by itself or alongside other signs such as discharge, inflammation, and bumps.

In this article, we are going to focus on the primary causes of an itchy penis, both related to STI’s and other less harmful infections.

Kindly note that when using the term “itchy penis,” it refers to an itch felt on the shaft or the glans.

Below are some of the causes of itching male private parts:

Psoriasis

Psoriasis is a chronic skin condition that causes cells to develop faster on the penis’ skin and, thus, leads to the pile-up of skin cells on the surface that results in scaly skin, which is often itchy.

Male Yeast Infection

Contrary to what most people think, men can also get a yeast infection. Also known as candidiasis, this infection can occur on a man’s penis tip and cause an uncomfortable itch.

Other signs of male yeast infection include a rash, burning sensation, and discharge on the foreskin.

HSV (Herpes Simplex Virus)

One of the main concerns for male private part itching is determining whether the cause is sexually transmitted or not.

HSV, also known as genital herpes, is a common STI that triggers itching on the penis and the area surrounding the genitals. This virus can also have symptoms such as the formation of tiny clusters of blisters.

HSV depending on your immunity, can lie dormant for years and start manifesting itself, later on, implying that a good number of people may have HSV and not even know about it.

Warts

Warts is a condition caused by the human papillomavirus (HPV). Like the scrotum, small bumps may appear on the penis due to warts. Penis warts cause irritation during intercourse.

Scabies

When mites find their way into your genital area, they can burrow under your penis skin and cause an itch. With scabies, you can see tiny burrow tracks on your skin if you look closely enough.

Contact Dermatitis

Allergens can also cause an itch on your penis. If you have contact dermatitis, you will notice a rash when your sensitive skin come into contact with soap or fabric that you are allergic to. Other than a rash, you may experience an itch accompanied by redness and tiny bumps.

Balanitis

This is a condition that inflames the penile glands. Swelling, itchiness, and soreness may also accompany the inflammation.

Eczema

Symptoms of eczema include itchy, inflamed, and dry skin. In most cases, eczema appears on the penis shaft.

Urethritis

Though not a common symptom, if you have urethritis, you may experience itching. The most obvious symptoms of urethritis are difficulty and frequent urinating.

Ingrown Hair

The same way ingrown hair can cause an itch, if you have an ingrown hair in your genitals, you may experience irritation.

Home Remedies for Itching in Private Parts

An itch in the private parts can be an irritating problem for men. Not only does it disrupt your daily activities, but it makes life unbearable. Penile or testicle itching is a problem that affects many men. So, if you are experiencing this, know that you are not alone. With that being said, there are different forms of treatment for male private part itching.

The best form of treatment depends on the cause of the itch. Also, treating an itch in the private parts can be quite tricky because it is not exposed in most cases. The dark environment down there makes it a perfect breeding ground for bacteria and fungi.

Whether it’s an STI or another condition causing the itch, you should never ignore this symptom. Knowing the cause will contribute to finding a more effective treatment plan. Before we list the best home remedies for itchy male private parts, we highly recommend against continuous scratching. The reason being, it can lead to a more severe bacterial infection that is harder to treat.

What are the Best Home Remedies for Itchy Private Parts?

Onion

For decades, onions have been used to treat a wide variety of infections. They contain antibiotics, antifungal, and anti-inflammatory properties. As a result, they are perfect for killing fungi and bacteria, which cause itchy penis or testicles.

To get relief from an itchy penis, grind half an onion till it turns into a paste. Do a small patch test on your skin and then apply it to the affected areas. Let it stay for 20 to 30 minutes and wash it off. Onions can cause a stinging sensation when applied to open wounds. Avoid getting it anywhere near the penis tip.

---

Salt Bath

A salt bath has plenty of benefits, one of which is that it can help relieve itching in the private parts. Prepare a salt bath by adding two handfuls of salt to the bathwater. Avoid putting in other additives. These, in most cases, lower the pain relief properties of salt.

---

Honey

Honey is known for its soothing and antifungal properties. It’s a very effective remedy that can get you through a stressful jock itch.

---

Apple Cider Vinegar

Other than being one of the most popular spices, apple cider vinegar does an exceptional job of getting rid of fungal and bacterial infections. It works exceptionally well at getting rid of genital warts, male yeast infections, and jock itch. It can be a bit too strong when used alone.

This is why you should mix 2 tablespoons of apple cider vinegar with water and wash the scrotum or penis. Do this regularly for two weeks, and the itch, as well as the condition causing it, will be treated.

---

Alcohol

Alcohol should only be used to treat infections caused by fungi. If you have determined that the cause for your itch is the male yeast infection, you will need to get some alcohol, dip a cotton ball inside it and rub it on the affected area. With alcohol, you don’t have to wash it after because it will evaporate.

---

Tea Tree Oil

Never let the urge to scratch your genitals take away your peace. Tea tree oil can give you the calmness that you crave so dearly. Recent studies have proven that tea tree oil contains antiviral, antifungal, antibacterial, and antiprotozoal properties.

Implying that it is a universal remedy for all genital-related conditions. Whether it’s a fungal or bacterial infection that’s causing your itch, regular application of tea tree oil can calm that itch right away.

Not to mention it is safe to apply on the penis, scrotum, and other areas surrounding your genitals. You can get tea tree oil online or from your nearest store.

Please be informed that it is sold in different strengths, and you should therefore read the label carefully before using it. If you happen to get your hands on tea tree oil in its purest form, you can dilute it with olive or coconut oil.

---

Yogurt

This natural probiotic contributes immensely to positive bacteria growth, which helps fight fungal and bacterial infections. The likes of thrash and candida can be treated by adding yogurt to your diet or simply applying it to the affected areas.

---

Garlic

It’s fascinating how many spices other than making our food tasty also help in treating a variety of conditions. Garlic, for instance, works wonders in treating yeast infections and getting rid of itching male private parts.

Recently, a study was done on garlic to show you how effective garlic is. It proved to be more effective and has fewer side effects than clotrimazole, a cream popularly used to treat yeast infections.

---

Coconut Oil

For those whose itch is attributed to ingrown hair, coconut oil can offer you a lot of relief. Coconut oil has been used extensively in hair products because of its ability to repair hair and moisturize skin. You, too, can use it to relieve itches caused by pubic hair.

Quick Home Remedies to Relieving Penile and Testicle Itching

The above are mostly long-term remedies, and for some, you may start to notice their effects after a day or two. If you are looking for immediate relief, the home remedies below can be quite useful:

• Apply a cold compress to the affected area.
• Avoid sexual activity that may worsen the itch.
• Take a salt bath regularly.
• Apply coconut and tea tree oil.

Preventing Penile and Testicles Itch

As the experts always say, prevention is way better than cure. And if you have been a victim of itchy male private parts, once you get relief from the above home remedies, you should practice prevention measures. There are two ways you can prevent itchy male private parts.

Itchiness caused by poor hygiene can be prevented by bathing regularly. Remember when we talked about how sweating can make your testicles itch? Well, when you take regular baths and wear comfortable clothing when exercising, you can avoid irritating your male private parts.

The other method entails conditions caused by sexually transmitted infections. Always wear protection when having sex. Wearing condoms is an excellent way to prevent anal and vaginal intercourse. In the case of oral intercourse, dental dams can be worn to prevent the spread of STDs.

It’s also a good habit to get tested for STIs regularly. This will enable you to know about your sexual health and can prevent spreading STI’s to others. If you have an STI, never hesitate to communicate this to your sexual partners.

Should you find out that the itch occurs as an allergic reaction to certain shampoos, soaps, and oils? Avoid them altogether and opt for safer products.

The Bottom Line

As you can see above, there are many causes of itching male private parts. They can be directly related to STIs, and some occur by themselves. Irrespective of the reason, relieving this itch should be your main priority. The above home remedies are quite useful at getting rid of the testicle and penile irritation.

As we conclude, it’s advisable to know when to see a doctor. If the itch is getting out of hand, continually scratching the area can make it worse. Therefore, you should see a doctor for diagnosis and provision of a treatment plan.