iCliniq Logo
HomeAnswersHIV/AIDS specialistsexually transmitted diseases

Can sanitizer cause urethral irritation in a 30-year-old man?

This Premium Q&A, reviewed and published, features a real conversation between an iCliniq user and a physician.

Patient's Query

Hello doctor,

I am a 30-year-old male. I received a hand job from a mysterious individual, and afterward, I put hand sanitizer all over my groin area. I think I put some in my urethra as well. Later that night, I noticed a dull discomfort in my urethra, but nothing painful. It does not hurt when I pee. It has been a day now with the same symptom. Should I be concerned about STIs (sexually transmitted infections)? Do you think the hand sanitizer caused it?

Kindly suggest.

Hello,

Welcome to icliniq.com.

I understand your concern.

Hand sanitizers are usually alcohol based preparations. No wonder that it caused some burning or discomfort in the urethra. But do not worry, you did not cause any significant harm to yourself. This might not be the sole criterion to worry about STIs (sexually transmitted infections). If you have more than one sexual partner, there is no harm in STI screening along with HIV (human immunodeficiency virus), syphilis, hepatitis B, and C screening.

I hope this helps.

Thank you.

Medically reviewed byiCliniq medical review team

Published At May 9, 2017
Reviewed AtDecember 18, 2025

Same symptoms don't mean you have the same problem. Consult a doctor now!

Listen to related tracks in our music library

Ask your health query to a doctor online

*guaranteed answer within 4 hours

Disclaimer: No content published on this website is intended to be a substitute for professional medical diagnosis, advice or treatment by a trained physician. Seek advice from your physician or other qualified healthcare providers with questions you may have regarding your symptoms and medical condition for a complete medical diagnosis. Do not delay or disregard seeking professional medical advice because of something you have read on this website. Read our Editorial Process to know how we create content for health articles and queries.