Masturbation / Question
Published: September 18, 2001
Dear TeenHealthFX,
Hey, 2 days ago I was masturbating with some body lotion. And 2 hours later my skin became very dry, and has redness around my sac & my head of my penis (I'm circumcised if that helps) I can't go to a doc because my parents are gone for two weeks and I'm broke. Please Help!
Signed: Redness Around Penis After Masturbation
Dear Redness Around Penis After Masturbation,
It is possible that you were allergic to some ingredient in the baby oil. Many products add extra ingredients such as fragrances that can cause an allergic reaction. The other possibility that there was some other substance on your hand that could have caused the reaction. Since the skin in your genital area tends to be sensitive is would be a good idea to wash your hands prior to masturbating and try to find a lubricant that is allergy sensitive.
If the redness doesn't clear up, then you should have a doctor check it out. Even if your parents are gone and you don't have any money you can still seek help. Contact your parents and let them know you need to see a doctor since you will need their permission to be seen for a medical complaint. You could confide in your parents what happened or omit the part how you got the rash. Either way your parents will want you to get the treatment you need. They may even be impressed about the mature way you handled the situation. Try not to be embarrassed; many males have had a similar experience.
You didn't mention it but if you have been sexually active in the past and have concerns about this being a sexually transmitted disease (it doesn't sound like that to us), all states have laws that allow minors to see a doctor for diagnosis and treatment of sexually transmitted diseases without their parents consent. Although if your dealing with something this daunting, it is always preferable to have your parents support.
If you need to meet with a doctor or speak with one, you can call the Adolescent/Young Adult Center For Health in Morristown, New Jersey at 973.889.6350 for an appointment.
Signed: TeenHealthFX
The teen pregnancy rate in the United States is the highest of any industrialized democracy, nearly twice that of Great Britain and 10 times that of Japan. 
