What are the common causes of perineal pain in men, and how is it treated?

Reviewed by Yoshinori Abe, MD

Internal Medicine

Perineal pain in men is discomfort between the scrotum and anus, most commonly caused by chronic prostatitis, pelvic floor muscle tension, or chronic pelvic pain syndrome (CPPS). Less frequently, it can stem from nerve irritation, infection, or injury. Treatment typically involves a combination of lifestyle adjustments, medications such as antibiotics or anti-inflammatories, and pelvic floor physical therapy. Because causes vary widely, a proper medical evaluation is essential to identify the right approach.

If you're experiencing perineal pain, understanding the potential cause is the critical first step toward effective relief. Symptoms can overlap across several conditions, making self-diagnosis difficult and often stressful. Taking a free, instant, online symptom check can help you clarify what's likely going on, identify red flags, and confidently plan your next steps—whether that's a lifestyle change or scheduling a visit with a specialist.

Reviewed for medical accuracy: 07/14/2026

Important Next Steps

Learn what’s causing your perineal pain See if your symptoms need prompt care Find out if perineal pain is serious Explore OTC relief for perineal pain Find a doctor for perineal pain Discover safe home remedies for perineal pain Understand likely causes of perineal pain

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Explanation

Perineal pain in men can be caused by several different things. One common reason is chronic prostatitis or chronic pelvic pain syndrome, which can make the area between the legs feel sore or uncomfortable. Tight or tense pelvic floor muscles can also contribute to this pain. Other causes may include nerve irritation or problems with nearby organs that refer pain to the perineal area.

To treat this pain, doctors usually start with basic care. Changing your daily habits might help, such as taking breaks to stretch and practicing good posture. Medications like pain relievers, anti-inflammatory drugs, or muscle relaxants can be used to ease the discomfort. Sometimes, doctors recommend pelvic physical therapy, where a trained therapist helps you learn exercises to relax the muscles and reduce pain.

In a few cases, other treatments like nerve blocks or counseling might be suggested if the pain is very persistent. If your perineal pain lasts a long time or gets worse, it's important to see your doctor so they can work with you to find the best way to feel better. You can start by using a free symptom checker to better understand what might be causing your discomfort before your appointment.

(References)

Andromanakos NP, Kouraklis G, Alkiviadis K. Chronic perineal pain: current pathophysiological aspects, diagnostic approaches and treatment. Eur J Gastroenterol Hepatol. 2011 Jan;23(1):2-7. PMID: 21079515.
Schaeffer AJ. Etiology and management of chronic pelvic pain syndrome in men. Urology. 2004 Mar;63(3 Suppl 1):75-84. PMID: 15013657.
Strauss AC, Dimitrakov JD. New treatments for chronic prostatitis/chronic pelvic pain syndrome. Nat Rev Urol. 2010 Mar;7(3):127-35. Epub 2010 Feb 9. PMID: 20142810; PMCID: PMC2837110.

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