When you tear your frenulum—the “banjo string” of tissue that connects the head of the penis to the shaft—it can be incredibly painful due to the concentration of nerves and receptors in the region.
Treating a tear
If you tear your frenulum, you will probably feel a sharp pain and may have some light bleeding. These are things you can treat at home. Here are your first steps in the initial treatment to help prevent infection:
- Wash your hands with warm, soapy water.
- Apply a cloth to the wound to stop blood flow.
- Clean the entire area with water.
- Dry the wound gently with a sterile piece of cloth.
If needed, you may apply an antibiotic cream and cover the wound with a clean bandage or Band-Aid. The dressing should be changed daily and antibiotic should be used as needed.
Although it may be painful, most tears of the frenulum heal without outside medical attention.
The sharp pain will probably stop after a couple hours but you may feel a dull, achy pain for up to a week.
When to see a doctor
If you’re still feeling any pain, warmth or tenderness after a week, call your doctor.
Excessive bleeding that doesn’t slow down after a couple hours may be an indication that you need stitches.
A burning sensation during urination, more frequent urination or loss of sensation may all be signs of infection.
If you notice any pus on the tear, a foul smell or redness of the skin, an infection may be present. Your medical provider may prescribe an oral antibiotic.
Preventing another frenulum tear
To help reduce your chances of tearing your frenulum again, avoid any sexual activity for a few weeks. Once you feel ready to engage in sexual activity again, use water-based lubrication but avoid condoms until you’re fully healed.
