Rough Handling and Penile Trauma
Penile trauma happens when the penis is hurt or wounded. For example, this can result from a gunshot, burns, car accidents, or sports. But most cases of penile trauma happen during sexual intercourse when the penis is erect. Erection causes a sudden rush of blood flow in the arteries, making the penis hard and firm. During intercourse, a fully erect penis can slip out of the vagina and hit something else, which can cause damage to the penis, specifically in the tunica albuginea. This damage will cause a popping sound and sharp pain in the penis.
The pain caused by penile trauma can last for a short time and subside, or it may escalate and intensify, depending on the intensity of the force. In some cases, blood can pool under the skin of the scrotum and penis, causing it to swell. If left untreated, the inflammation may lead to severe balanitis.
Rough handling and use of unsafe sex toys can also lead to balanitis. For example, using a constricting device like a rubber tube around the penis for an extended period can tear the skin and injure the muscles of the penis. In addition, plastic rings, metal supports, and other stiff objects can block the blood flow and become stuck in the penis if it swells.
