Glans Penis

The reproductive system of a male body contains both external as well as internal components. One of the most important external components of the entire male reproductive system is the penis. It can be divided into 3 different parts known as the glans penis, the shaft or the body, and the root. 

Students might also hear the term the head of the penis. Keep on reading in order to find out more about the glans penis along with other details such as the function of the glans penis and diseases of glans penis. 

What is Glans Penis Anatomy?

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The location of the glans penis is at the end of the shaft of the penis. Added to the main portion of the glans, there are some other areas of the glans penis that require some special awareness. 

• The neck in the glans penis actually separates the tip from the penis shaft or the main body of the penis. 

• The corona of the glans penis is the round border that projects right from the glans penis base. 

• The meatus of the glans penis can be defined as the opening situated in the male urethra. It is mostly found in the glans penis tip. 

• The foreskin or the prepuce can be defined as a smaller layer made up of skin that acts as a cover for the glans penis. In some cases, the prepuce is removed from the male penis through a process known as circumcision. 

What is the Function of Glans Penis? 

When it comes to glans penis function, it can be used for both reproduction and urination. In case the penis remains in a flaccid state, the urine is easily expelled from the male body through the urethra. However, during sex, the semen is excreted from the urethra when the man encounters an orgasm. Additionally, the penis remains in a rigid state and hence the glans penis is much softer during that time. Hence, the main function is to absorb the shocks during sex. 

There is also a high concentration of proper nerve endings in the glans penis. This makes the portion one of the most sensitive sections in a penis. It is important for the glans penis to have a specific level of sensitivity as it helps with the process of sexual stimulation as well as ejaculation. It is often seen in studies that when the glans penis is too soft or sensitive, it can lead to premature ejaculation. 

Common Diseases of Glans Penis 

Some of the most common diseases of the glans penis include infections and swelling of the portion. There are certain symptoms for each of the diseases that one can look for.  

1. Balanitis

This condition occurs due to the inflammation of the glans penis. Some of the symptoms of the condition include: 

• Irritation or pain 

• Itching 

• Redness 

• Thick discharge which is white in colour 

• Swelling of the glans penis 

• A rash or numerous sores 

• Painful urination  

2. Infections

Some of the common conditions of glans penis infection include:

• Human papillomavirus or HPV: The different strains of HPV in the male penis can cause numerous genital warts to form a cauliflower-like structure in the penis. 

• Candida Infection: More commonly known as fungal infection of the glans penis. Some common symptoms of candida infection are redness, itching, and white discharge. 

• HSV or Herpes Simplex Virus: It is a medical condition that can cause genital herpes. Such a type of infection can cause the formation of ulcers and painful lesions. 

• Chlamydia & Gonorrhea: These medical conditions are caused due to the presence of bacteria in the glans penis. Painful urination and white discharge are some of the common symptoms of the disease. 

3. Lichen sclerosus

This is another medical condition that primarily affects the region of the glans penis. Some of the symptoms include: 

• A feeling in the skin which is thin or like paper that is crinkled

• Loss of pigmentation in the skin 

• Pain 

• Bleeding 

• Itching

• Urination problems 

• Erections that are painful 

4. Psoriasis

Psoriasis can be defined as another inflammatory skin condition of the genitals. In the case of psoriasis, there are some common symptoms which include 

• Redness in the genitals 

• Dry and itchy feeling

• Scaly and flaky penis

Treatment for Glans Penis Diseases 

There are different options for treatment of the glans penis. The form of treatment actually depends on the cause of the problem. These can include some antimicrobial medication, steroid creams, electrocautery, cryoablation, and some other forms of treatment. 

Conclusion

The glans penis is located on the tip of the penis body or shaft. Since it is an exposed portion of the male reproductive system, it is often prone to infections and other diseases. In case someone notices any symptoms of the disease, it is recommended that they go see a doctor immediately.