There are penile health problems of far greater importance than an itchy penis, but few that recur as frequently or that all men can relate to. Whether it’s the occasional urge to scratch or the urgency of a chronic itchy penile condition, all men can sympathize with the desire to be free of midsection itch. That desire is why it’s important to know what can cause that itch. Men who wear compression shorts on a regular basis should know that particular underwear may be to blame.
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 figured out that compression shorts could be a boon for athletes. By providing muscle support and helping to increase circulation, they could theoretically allow athletes to perform even better. Plus, the compression aspect makes them a good replacement for the oft-maligned athletic support. Therefore, compression shorts have made an impact as more and more men wear them.
These shorts are especially popular in activities that involve running or cycling, so track athletes can wear them. But they also appear quite frequently in the gym, as they have been adopted by bodybuilders, or simply men interested in keeping fit.
Compression shorts typically come to mid-thigh. They are usually made of spandex or similar materials. In most cases, compression shorts are worn without underwear to provide the desired penile and testicular support. (Some men choose to wear compression shorts as underwear under pants.)
The Itchy Penis Connection
Why should there be any connection between compression shorts and possible penile itching? 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 vigilant about the cleanliness of these pants as they should be. Many men feel that if they only wear them for an hour or so at the gym, they don’t really need to wash them daily. 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 bad odors. It’s also about removing sweat, bacteria, and fungus.
Yeast
When a man sweats in his crotch, there is a very real possibility that he is creating a warm, moist environment in which a fungus can thrive. This can result in a nasty yeast infection (called thrush in men), which can make a man scratch like crazy.
Yes, fungal 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 just as easily come back if a man doesn’t take care of himself, and isn’t it easier to just prevent it by washing those sweaty compression shorts after every sweaty wear? (It will also help with the aforementioned odor problem.)
Compression shorts aren’t the only cause of penile itching, of course. Dry penis skin is a common cause and can be relieved by regular application of a premium penis health cream. (Health professionals recommend Man1 Man Oil, which is clinically proven to be gentle and safe for the skin). Keeping the delicate skin on your penis hydrated is essential, and that requires a cream that includes a high-end emollient (shea butter is great) and a natural moisturizer (vitamin E works great). It also helps to further strengthen the skin through a cream with a powerful antioxidant to fight free radicals. Alpha Lipoic Acid is great in this regard as it helps keep skin resilient.
