Noticing symptoms
Cancers and other diseases can cause symptoms. These are changes in your body that you notice.
Penile cancers often cause changes in the skin of the penis. This often occurs before other symptoms such as pain or bleeding.
Other conditions, not just cancer, can cause changes to the penis so it is always best to have them checked out by a GP.
What you need to know
Penile cancer symptoms
It is important to be aware of any changes to your penis.
Symptoms of penile cancer can include changes to the penis such as:
- a sore (ulcer or nodule) that doesn’t heal
- a change in the skin colour or texture
- difficulty in drawing back the foreskin
- odour and persistent discharge from under the foreskin
- unexplained pain in the penis or unexplained bleeding
- a lump under the foreskin.
Other symptoms can include:
- a lump in the groin (enlarged lymph node)
- feeling tired
- unexplained weight loss
- difficulty passing urine.
Most symptoms are not caused by cancer, but it is always best to let your doctor know about any symptoms you have. Cancers that are diagnosed early can be easier to treat.
Other resources we recommend
Use the following links to find out more about this topic.
Penis cancer
https://www.cancervic.org.au/cancer-information/types-of-cancer/penis_cancer/penis-cancer-overview.html
Penile cancer: Symptoms and signs
https://www.cancer.net/cancer-types/penile-cancer/symptoms-and-signs
Next steps
What to do if you have symptoms
If you have symptoms that you are worried about, even if they seem minor, you should go to see a GP. Don't be embarrassed to bring up your concerns.
Remember, cancers that are found earlier can be easier to treat.
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Cancer Council Mon-Fri 9am-5pm13 11 20
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Rare Cancers Australia Monday - Friday1800 257 600