There are penis health concerns of far greater import than an itchy penis, but few that recur as frequently or that all men can identify with. Whether it’s just the occasional need to scratch or the urgency of a chronic itchy penis condition, all males can sympathize with the desire to be itch-free in the midsection. That desire is why knowing what can cause that itch is important. Men who wear compression shorts on a regular basis should be aware that that particular underwear may be the culprit.

About compression shorts

Compression shorts evolved from medical compression garments. These garments were intended to provide a very snug fit for support and circulatory reasons. Eventually, someone realized that compression shorts might be a benefit for athletes. By providing muscle support and helping boost circulation, they could theoretically enable athletes to perform even better. In addition, the compression aspect makes them a good replacement for the often-maligned athletic supporter. Thus, compression shorts have made an impact as more and more men wear them.

These shorts are especially popular in activities involving running or cycling, so track athletes may wear them. But they also show up quite frequently in the gym, as body-builders – or simply men who are interesting in keeping in shape – have taken them up.

Compression shorts typically run to mid-thigh in length. They tend to be made of spandex or similar materials. Most often, compression shorts are worn without underwear, to provide the desired testicular and penile support. (Some men opt to wear compression shorts as underwear underneath their trousers.)

The itchy penis connection

Why should there be any connection between compression shorts and a possible itchy penis? Well, as long as those compression shorts are kept very clean, there really shouldn’t be.

Unfortunately, many men – especially amateur athletes – are not as attentive to cleaning these shorts as they should be. Many guys feel that if they only wear them for an hour or so at the gym, they don’t really need to wash them on a daily basis. Simply airing them out should be enough to disperse most of the odor that clings to them.

That may (or may not) be the case, but washing compression shorts isn’t just about getting rid of unfortunate odors. It’s also about cleaning away sweat and bacteria – and fungus.

Yeast

When a man sweats in his crotch, there is a very real possibility he is creating a warm, moist environment in which a fungus can thrive. This can result in a nasty yeast infection (called candidiasis in men), which can cause a guy to scratch like mad.

Yes, yeast infections can be treated. There are antifungal medications (both prescription and over-the-counter) that can be used to clear it up relatively quickly. But it can come back just as easily if a guy doesn’t take care – and isn’t it easier to simply prevent it by washing those compression shorts after each sweaty use? (It will also help with that aforementioned odor issue.)

Compression shorts aren’t the only cause of an itchy penis, of course. Dry penis skin is a common cause, and one that can be alleviated by regular application of a first rate penis health crème (health professionals recommend Man1 Man Oil, which is clinically proven mild and safe for skin). Keeping the delicate penis skin moisturized is essential, and that requires a crème that includes both a high-end emollient (Shea butter is excellent) and a natural hydrator (vitamin E does the trick nicely). It also helps to further strengthen the skin via a crème with a powerful antioxidant to fight free radicals. Alpha lipoic acid is excellent in this regard, helping keep the skin resilient.

Source by John Dugan