QUESTION
I recently have been having unprotected sex with a girl who is on birth control. Three days after our first encounter, I have noticed a tingling feeling on the tip of my penis. I have never felt this sensation before. Is this something I should be worried about? My partner said she recently has been tested and is clean. Any info would be greatly appreciated. Thanks!

ANSWER
It is impossible to say for sure what's going on without getting checked by an experienced clinician. He or she will ask you detailed questions about your symptoms and then may check your penis or urine for any signs of infection.

The symptoms you're describing could be related to urethritis -- an inflammation or irritation of the urethra. Urethritis could be caused by many things, including a sexually transmitted disease (STD) like chlamydia (usually has no symptoms in women), or it may not due to an STD at all (yeast, reaction to lube, even psychological). Getting checked is easy and will help you get the information you need to stay healthy.

Most birth control methods are effective in preventing unwanted pregnancies, but not STDs, including HIV. We recommend double-protection -- protection against both pregnancy and STDs -- so using a condom and birth control together. It is both partners' responsibility to reduce your risks.

To your health,
Dr. K