Male discharge is any fluid exiting the urethra that is not urine. It originates from various sources within the male reproductive and urinary tracts. While some types are physiological and harmless, others signal an underlying infection or medical condition. Understanding the characteristics of discharge helps distinguish between a normal bodily function and a potential health concern.
Understanding Physiological Discharge
Several types of discharge are associated with sexual arousal or sleep. Pre-ejaculatory fluid, often called precum, is produced by the Cowper’s (bulbourethral) glands during sexual stimulation. This fluid is usually clear, thin, and secreted in a small volume before ejaculation. Its role is to lubricate the urethra and neutralize residual acidity left by urine, creating a favorable environment for sperm.
A nocturnal emission, commonly known as a wet dream, involves the involuntary discharge of semen during sleep. This natural process is common during adolescence. The expelled fluid is semen, typically milky, cloudy, or white. Residual semen may also exit the urethra shortly after ejaculation or urination. These physiological fluids are generally clear or whitish, lack a foul odor, and are linked to sexual activity or sleep.
Common Infectious Causes
The most frequent causes of abnormal discharge are sexually transmitted infections (STIs) that lead to urethritis (inflammation of the urethra). Gonorrhea, caused by the bacterium Neisseria gonorrhoeae, is a common cause. The discharge is often thick, pus-like, and copious, typically appearing yellow, green, or sometimes white. This may be accompanied by pain or burning during urination and occasional testicular pain.
Chlamydia, caused by the bacterium Chlamydia trachomatis, is another bacterial STI that often presents with discharge. Chlamydia-related discharge tends to be thinner and less profuse than gonorrhea discharge, frequently described as watery, clear, milky, or cloudy. While symptoms are often milder or absent in men, the discharge is a persistent sign of infection. Both infections require antibiotic treatment and are commonly tested for simultaneously.
Less common infectious agents can also cause pathological discharge, including Mycoplasma genitalium and Trichomonas vaginalis. Mycoplasma infection causes discharge that can resemble chlamydia or gonorrhea, but it is often scarcer. Trichomonas, a parasitic infection, is associated with discharge that is typically white, thin, and sometimes has a foul or “fishy” odor.
Non-Infectious Sources of Abnormal Discharge
Not all pathological discharge stems from STIs; several non-infectious conditions can irritate the urethra. Non-gonococcal urethritis (NGU) describes urethral inflammation not caused by gonorrhea or chlamydia, but potentially by other non-STI pathogens or irritation. This condition can be caused by organisms like Ureaplasma species, which can overgrow and lead to symptoms. The discharge from NGU is typically cloudy or milky, and it may be accompanied by a burning sensation during urination.
Irritation from non-infectious sources can also lead to discharge. Balanitis is inflammation of the glans or foreskin, which can result in fluid discharge, often occurring beneath the foreskin. This can be triggered by poor hygiene, fungal infections, or irritation from chemical agents like harsh soaps or lubricants. Damage to the urethra from physical trauma, such as catheter insertion or vigorous sexual activity, may also cause a temporary, abnormal discharge.
Recognizing Symptoms That Require Medical Evaluation
Any discharge that is not clearly pre-ejaculate, semen, or residual urine should be medically evaluated, especially if it occurs spontaneously without sexual arousal. A persistent discharge, or one that changes color to yellow, green, or includes blood, is a sign that professional attention is needed. Changes in fluid consistency, such as becoming thick or pus-like, or the presence of a foul odor, indicate a potential infection.
Accompanying symptoms requiring an immediate medical appointment include pain or burning during urination (dysuria), swelling or redness of the penis, or testicular pain. Systemic symptoms, such as fever or chills, indicate a widespread infection requiring urgent care. During evaluation, a healthcare provider will take a detailed history, perform a physical examination, and collect a sample of the discharge or a first-void urine sample. This sample is then tested to identify the exact cause, allowing for targeted treatment with appropriate medication.