Cowper’s Gland Masses

Last updated: February 8, 2026Reviewed date: February 8, 2026Reading time: 10 min read
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Cowper's glands, also known as bulbourethral glands, are small glands located near the base of the penis. They play a significant role in male reproductive health. When these glands develop masses or swell, it can cause discomfort and indicate underlying issues. This article explores Cowper's...

For severe symptoms, danger signs, pregnancy, child illness, or sudden worsening, seek urgent medical care.

বাংলা রোগী নোট এখনো যোগ করা হয়নি। পোস্ট এডিটরে “RX Bangla Patient Mode” বক্স থেকে সহজ বাংলা সারাংশ যোগ করুন।

এই তথ্য শিক্ষা ও সচেতনতার জন্য। এটি ডাক্তারি পরীক্ষা, রোগ নির্ণয় বা প্রেসক্রিপশনের বিকল্প নয়।

Article Summary

Cowper's glands, also known as bulbourethral glands, are small glands located near the base of the penis. They play a significant role in male reproductive health. When these glands develop masses or swell, it can cause discomfort and indicate underlying issues. This article explores Cowper's gland masses, their causes, symptoms, treatments, and when to seek medical help. Cowper’s glands are two small, pea-sized structures situated...

Key Takeaways

  • This article explains Pathophysiology of Cowper’s Gland Masses in simple medical language.
  • This article explains Types of Cowper’s Gland Masses in simple medical language.
  • This article explains Causes of Cowper’s Gland Masses in simple medical language.
  • This article explains Symptoms of Cowper’s Gland Masses in simple medical language.
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Definition

Cowper’s glands, also known as bulbourethral glands, are small glands located near the base of the penis. They play a significant role in male reproductive health. When these glands develop masses or swell, it can cause discomfort and indicate underlying issues. This article explores Cowper’s gland masses, their causes, symptoms, treatments, and when to seek medical help.

Cowper’s glands are two small, pea-sized structures situated beneath the prostate gland. Their primary function is to secrete a clear, mucous-like fluid that is released into the urethra before ejaculation. This fluid helps to neutralize any acidic urine in the urethra and lubricates the passage, facilitating the movement of sperm.

Structure and Function:

  • Size and Location: They are about the size of a pea and located just below the prostate gland, near the urethra.
  • Function: These glands produce a lubricating fluid that helps sperm to move easily through the urethra.

Pathophysiology of Cowper’s Gland Masses

Masses or lumps in Cowper’s glands can develop due to various factors such as infections, cysts, or blockages. These masses might cause discomfort and can lead to complications like infection or pain, swelling, heat, or redness. সহজ বাংলা: শরীরের প্রদাহ; ব্যথা, ফোলা বা লালভাব হতে পারে।" data-rx-term="inflammation" data-rx-definition="Inflammation is the body’s response to injury, infection, or irritation, often causing pain, swelling, heat, or redness. সহজ বাংলা: শরীরের প্রদাহ; ব্যথা, ফোলা বা লালভাব হতে পারে।">inflammation.

Blood Supply:

The blood supply to the Cowper’s glands is derived from branches of the internal pudendal artery, which also supplies blood to other parts of the male genitalia.

Nerve Supply:

The nerve supply is mainly from the pelvic nerve and the sympathetic nerves, which help in the gland’s secretion of the fluid.

Types of Cowper’s Gland Masses

  1. Cowper’s Gland Cyst: A fluid-filled sac that can develop within the gland, causing discomfort.
  2. Cowper’s Gland Abscess: A painful, pus-filled lump due to an infection in the gland.
  3. Benign Cowper’s Gland Tumors: Non-cancerous growths that can form within the glands.
  4. Cowper’s Gland Enlargement: Enlargement due to infection or blockage.

Causes of Cowper’s Gland Masses

  1. Infection: Bacterial infections can lead to swelling and pus formation in the gland.
  2. infection, or irritation, often causing pain, swelling, heat, or redness. সহজ বাংলা: শরীরের প্রদাহ; ব্যথা, ফোলা বা লালভাব হতে পারে।" data-rx-term="inflammation" data-rx-definition="Inflammation is the body’s response to injury, infection, or irritation, often causing pain, swelling, heat, or redness. সহজ বাংলা: শরীরের প্রদাহ; ব্যথা, ফোলা বা লালভাব হতে পারে।">Inflammation: Chronic infection, or irritation, often causing pain, swelling, heat, or redness. সহজ বাংলা: শরীরের প্রদাহ; ব্যথা, ফোলা বা লালভাব হতে পারে।" data-rx-term="inflammation" data-rx-definition="Inflammation is the body’s response to injury, infection, or irritation, often causing pain, swelling, heat, or redness. সহজ বাংলা: শরীরের প্রদাহ; ব্যথা, ফোলা বা লালভাব হতে পারে।">inflammation can cause the glands to swell.
  3. Cyst Formation: Fluid-filled sacs can form in the gland.
  4. Prostate Disease: Conditions affecting the prostate may affect Cowper’s glands.
  5. Sexually Transmitted Infections (STIs): Such as gonorrhea or chlamydia.
  6. Blockages: A blockage in the duct of the gland can cause swelling.
  7. Trauma: Injury to the region can lead to swelling or lumps.
  8. Hormonal Imbalance: Hormonal changes can sometimes affect gland function.
  9. Chronic Urethritis: infection, or irritation, often causing pain, swelling, heat, or redness. সহজ বাংলা: শরীরের প্রদাহ; ব্যথা, ফোলা বা লালভাব হতে পারে।" data-rx-term="inflammation" data-rx-definition="Inflammation is the body’s response to injury, infection, or irritation, often causing pain, swelling, heat, or redness. সহজ বাংলা: শরীরের প্রদাহ; ব্যথা, ফোলা বা লালভাব হতে পারে।">Inflammation of the urethra can involve Cowper’s glands.
  10. Urinary Retention: Retained urine can put pressure on the glands.
  11. Scar Tissue: After infections or injury, scar tissue can form.
  12. Prostate Cancer: Rarely, cancer can spread to affect the Cowper’s glands.
  13. Surgical Procedures: Post-surgical complications may involve gland swelling.
  14. Poor Hygiene: Bacteria build-up in the area can cause infection.
  15. Dietary Factors: A diet low in essential nutrients can affect gland function.
  16. Chronic Pelvic Infections: Recurrent infections can lead to gland problems.
  17. Chronic Stress: Can affect overall immune function and gland health.
  18. Age-related Changes: Aging can lead to changes in gland size and function.
  19. Genetic Factors: Some people may be predisposed to gland problems.
  20. Sexual Activity: Frequent sexual activity may lead to gland irritation.

Symptoms of Cowper’s Gland Masses

  1. Pain or Tenderness: Pain around the base of the penis or groin area.
  2. Swelling: Visible swelling or lumps in the region of the gland.
  3. Difficulty Urinating: Trouble urinating or pain during urination.
  4. Discharge: Unusual discharge from the urethra.
  5. Burning Sensation: A burning feeling during urination or ejaculation.
  6. Painful Ejaculation: Pain during or after ejaculation.
  7. Abnormal Fluid Secretion: Excessive or abnormal fluid secretions from the glands.
  8. Fever: Fever as a sign of infection or inflammation.
  9. Tenderness in the Lower Abdomen: Pain in the lower abdomen area.
  10. Lower Back Pain: Discomfort or pain in the lower back region.
  11. Difficulty Maintaining an Erection: Erectile problems due to gland inflammation.
  12. Chronic Discomfort: Persistent discomfort in the groin or pelvic area.
  13. Pain While Sitting: Increased pain when sitting due to pressure on the glands.
  14. Bloody Discharge: Blood in the fluid from the urethra.
  15. Increased Sensitivity: Sensitivity in the groin or genital area.
  16. Swollen Lymph Nodes: Enlarged lymph nodes in the groin area.
  17. Changes in Urine Color: Dark or cloudy urine due to infection.
  18. General Malaise: A feeling of being unwell or fatigued.
  19. Nausea: Feeling sick due to infection or inflammation.
  20. Difficulty with Sexual Function: Changes in sexual desire or performance.

Diagnostic Tests for Cowper’s Gland Masses

  1. Physical Examination: The doctor checks for lumps or tenderness in the genital region.
  2. Ultrasound: Uses sound waves to create images of the gland and detect abnormalities.
  3. MRI: Provides detailed images of the gland and surrounding tissues.
  4. CT Scan: Helps to visualize the gland and surrounding areas for mass detection.
  5. Urine Test: Tests for infection or other urinary issues.
  6. Blood Tests: To check for signs of infection or inflammation.
  7. Prostate Examination: To rule out prostate involvement.
  8. Urethral Culture: Detects infections like STIs.
  9. Biopsy: A tissue sample from the gland is examined for cancer cells.
  10. Cystoscopy: A tube with a camera is inserted into the urethra to examine the ducts.
  11. X-ray: To view the general structure and identify issues.
  12. Semen Analysis: To assess the quality of sperm and fluid produced by the glands.
  13. Endoscopic Examination: Uses a camera to view the urethra and glands.
  14. MRI of the Pelvis: Detailed scans to check for abnormalities.
  15. Lymph Node Biopsy: Checks for signs of infection or cancer in the lymph nodes.
  16. Digital Rectal Exam: To check for any prostate issues that may affect Cowper’s glands.
  17. CT Urography: A specialized CT scan for urinary issues.
  18. Semen Culture: To check for infections in the semen.
  19. Culture for Gonorrhea/Chlamydia: Tests for common STIs.
  20. Serological Tests: To detect specific infections affecting the glands.

Non-Pharmacological Treatments for Cowper’s Gland Masses

  1. Warm Compress: Applying heat to reduce swelling and discomfort.
  2. Sitz Baths: Soaking in warm water to relieve pain and inflammation.
  3. Hydration: Drinking plenty of water to flush out infections.
  4. Pelvic Floor Exercises: Strengthening pelvic muscles to reduce pressure.
  5. Dietary Changes: Eating anti-inflammatory foods.
  6. Avoiding Sexual Activity: Allowing the glands to heal by avoiding irritation.
  7. Stress Management: Using relaxation techniques to reduce stress and inflammation.
  8. Herbal Remedies: Using anti-inflammatory herbs like turmeric.
  9. Massage: Gentle massaging of the pelvic region to increase blood flow.
  10. Cold Compress: Applying ice to reduce swelling in the early stages.
  11. Avoiding Tight Clothing: Wearing loose clothing to avoid pressure on the glands.
  12. Rest: Ensuring plenty of rest to promote healing.
  13. Physical Therapy: In some cases, pelvic physical therapy can help.
  14. Proper Hygiene: Keeping the area clean to prevent infections.
  15. Elevation: Elevating the pelvic area to reduce pressure.
  16. Probiotics: Maintaining gut health to prevent infections.
  17. Anti-inflammatory Diet: Eating foods that reduce inflammation.
  18. Acupuncture: Some people find relief through acupuncture.
  19. Biofeedback: Learning to control bodily functions to relieve pain.
  20. Biofeedback: Techniques to reduce symptoms through relaxation.
  21. Aromatherapy: Using calming essential oils to promote healing.
  22. Mindfulness: Practicing mindfulness to reduce pain perception.
  23. Physical Activity: Moderate exercise to improve blood circulation.
  24. Avoiding Alcohol: Limiting alcohol to reduce inflammation.
  25. Avoiding Caffeine: Caffeine can irritate the urinary tract.
  26. Quit Smoking: Smoking cessation to improve overall health.
  27. Nutritional Supplements: Taking vitamins to support immune function.
  28. Chiropractic Care: Using spinal adjustments to improve pelvic health.
  29. Therapeutic Massage: Focused therapy on the lower back and pelvic area.
  30. Lifestyle Modifications: Adopting a healthy lifestyle to prevent future issues.

Drugs for Cowper’s Gland Masses

  1. Antibiotics: To treat infections like gonorrhea or chlamydia.
  2. Pain Relievers: Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) for pain.
  3. Antibiotic Creams: For topical application to treat external infections.
  4. Corticosteroids: To reduce inflammation in the glands.
  5. Alpha-blockers: To relax muscles around the urethra.
  6. Anti-fungal Medications: If a fungal infection is present.
  7. Hormonal Therapy: To balance hormone levels affecting gland function.
  8. Antiviral Drugs: To treat viral infections affecting the glands.
  9. Penicillin: A common antibiotic for treating bacterial infections.
  10. Tetracycline: A type of antibiotic for treating infections.
  11. Nitrofurantoin: Used for urinary tract infections that may affect the glands.
  12. Ibuprofen: To reduce pain and swelling.
  13. Acetaminophen: A common pain reliever for mild discomfort.
  14. Prednisone: A corticosteroid to reduce inflammation.
  15. Metronidazole: For treating anaerobic bacterial infections.
  16. Ciprofloxacin: A powerful antibiotic for bacterial infections.
  17. Doxycycline: An antibiotic for bacterial infections.
  18. Fluconazole: For fungal infections that can affect the gland.
  19. Diuretics: To reduce fluid retention and pressure on the glands.
  20. Oxybutynin: A medication that can help with urinary retention.

Surgeries for Cowper’s Gland Masses

  1. Drainage of Abscess: Surgery to drain pus from an infected Cowper’s gland.
  2. Cyst Removal: Surgical removal of cysts within the glands.
  3. Gland Biopsy: To check for cancerous growths.
  4. Prostatectomy: Removal of the prostate if it is affecting the Cowper’s glands.
  5. Urethral Reconstruction: Surgery to fix damage to the urethra.
  6. Surgical Decompression: Relieving pressure from a swollen gland.
  7. Gland Removal: In severe cases, the gland may need to be removed.
  8. Epididymectomy: Removal of the epididymis if affected by an infection.
  9. Vasectomy: In rare cases, when other methods fail.
  10. Laparoscopic Surgery: Minimally invasive surgery to treat gland issues.

When to See a Doctor

If you experience pain, swelling, or discomfort in the genital area, it’s important to consult a doctor. Early treatment can help prevent complications.

Conclusion

Cowper’s gland masses, though often benign, can be uncomfortable and lead to complications if left untreated. Early detection and appropriate treatment are key to managing these conditions. By understanding the causes, symptoms, and available treatments, you can take better care of your reproductive health.

 

Authors

The article is written by Team Rxharun and reviewed by the Rx Editorial Board Members

More details about authors, please visit to  Sciprofile.com 

Last Update: December 27, 2024.

 

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Safety note: This is not a prescription or diagnosis. For severe symptoms, pregnancy danger signs, children with serious illness, chest pain, breathing difficulty, stroke-like weakness, or major injury, seek urgent care.

Which doctor may help?

Start with a registered doctor or the nearest qualified health center.

What to tell the doctor

  • Write when the problem started and how it changed.
  • Bring old prescriptions, investigation reports, and current medicines.
  • Write allergies, pregnancy status, diabetes, kidney/liver disease, and major past illnesses.
  • Bring one family member if the patient is weak, elderly, confused, or a child.

Questions to ask

  • What is the most likely cause of my symptoms?
  • Which danger signs mean I should go to hospital quickly?
  • Which tests are necessary now, and which can wait?
  • How should I take medicines safely and what side effects should I watch for?
  • When should I come for follow-up?

Tests to discuss

  • Vital signs: temperature, pulse, blood pressure, oxygen saturation
  • Basic physical examination by a clinician
  • CBC, urine test, blood sugar, or imaging only when clinically needed

Avoid these mistakes

  • Do not use antibiotics, steroid tablets/injections, or strong painkillers without proper medical advice.
  • Do not hide pregnancy, kidney disease, ulcer, allergy, or blood thinner use.
  • Do not delay emergency care when danger signs are present.

Medicine safety and first-aid guide

This section is for patient education only. It does not replace a doctor, pharmacist, or emergency care.

Safe first steps

  • Avoid heavy lifting, sudden bending, and prolonged bed rest.
  • Use comfortable posture and gentle movement as tolerated.
  • Discuss physiotherapy, X-ray, or MRI only when clinically needed.

OTC medicine safety

  • For mild back pain, pain-relief medicine may be discussed with a doctor or pharmacist.
  • Avoid repeated painkiller use if you have kidney disease, stomach ulcer, uncontrolled blood pressure, or are taking blood thinners.

Avoid these mistakes

  • Do not start antibiotics without a proper medical decision.
  • Do not use steroid tablets or injections casually for quick relief.
  • Do not delay emergency care because of home remedies.

Get urgent help if

  • Back pain with leg weakness, numbness around private area, loss of urine/stool control, fever, cancer history, or major injury needs urgent care.
Medicine names, dose, and timing must be decided by a qualified clinician or pharmacist after checking age, pregnancy, allergy, other diseases, and current medicines.

For rural patients and family caregivers

Patient health record and symptom diary

Write your symptoms, medicines already taken, test results, and questions before visiting a doctor. This note stays on your device unless you print or copy it.

Doctor to discuss: Orthopedic / spine specialist, physical medicine doctor, or qualified clinician
Tests to discuss with doctor
  • Neurological examination for leg power, sensation, reflexes, and straight leg raise
  • X-ray only if injury, deformity, long-lasting pain, or doctor suspects bone problem
  • MRI discussion if severe nerve symptoms, weakness, bladder/bowel problem, or persistent symptoms
Questions to ask
  • What is the most likely cause of my symptoms?
  • Which warning signs mean I should go to emergency care?
  • Which tests are really needed now?
  • Which medicines are safe for my age, pregnancy status, allergy, kidney/liver/stomach condition, and current medicines?
  • Is physiotherapy, posture correction, or activity modification needed?

Emergency warning signs such as chest pain, severe breathing difficulty, sudden weakness, confusion, severe dehydration, major injury, or loss of bladder/bowel control need urgent medical care. Do not wait for online information.

Safe pathway to proper treatment

Care roadmap for: Cowper’s Gland Masses

Use this simple roadmap to understand the next safe steps. It is educational and does not replace examination by a doctor.

Go to emergency care if you notice:
  • Severe or rapidly worsening symptoms
  • Breathing difficulty, chest pain, fainting, confusion, severe weakness, major injury, or severe dehydration
Doctor / service to discuss: Qualified healthcare provider; specialist depends on symptoms and examination.
  1. Step 1

    Check danger signs first

    If danger signs are present, seek emergency care and do not wait for online information.

  2. Step 2

    Record the symptom story

    Write when symptoms started, severity, medicines already taken, allergies, pregnancy status, and test results.

  3. Step 3

    Visit a qualified clinician

    A doctor, nurse, or qualified healthcare provider can examine you and decide which tests or treatment are needed.

  4. Step 4

    Do only useful tests

    Do tests after clinical assessment. Avoid unnecessary tests, random antibiotics, or repeated medicines without diagnosis.

  5. Step 5

    Follow up and return early if worse

    If symptoms worsen, new warning signs appear, or treatment is not helping, return for review quickly.

Rural patient practical tips
  • Take a written symptom diary and all previous prescriptions/test reports.
  • Do not hide medicines already taken, even herbal or over-the-counter medicines.
  • Ask which warning signs mean urgent referral to hospital.

This roadmap is for education. A real diagnosis and treatment plan requires history, examination, and clinical judgment.

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Write your symptom story. A health professional or site editor can review it before any answer is prepared. This box is not for emergency care.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Is this article a replacement for a doctor?

No. It is educational content only. Patients should consult a qualified clinician for diagnosis and treatment.

When should I seek urgent care?

Seek urgent care for severe symptoms, rapidly worsening condition, breathing difficulty, severe pain, neurological changes, or any emergency warning sign.

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Diseases A–Z

Septum glandis injury refers to trauma or damage to a specific tissue structure within the glans…

Diseases A–Z

Abdominal Fascia Masses

Abdominal fascia masses refer to abnormal growths or lumps that appear in the fascia—the connective tissue…

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  1. Congenital Adrenal Hyperplasia Due to Apparent Combined P450c17 and P450c21 Deficiency

    DefinitionCongenital? adrenal hyperplasia due to apparent combined P450c17 and P450c21 deficiency is a very rare genetic disease that affects how the adrenal glands make hormones. In...

    March 6, 2026 • Rx Urology
  2. Congenital Adrenal Hyperplasia Due to Cytochrome P450 Oxidoreductase Deficiency

    DefinitionCongenital? adrenal hyperplasia due to cytochrome P450 oxidoreductase deficiency is a rare inherited disease that affects how the body makes important steroid? hormones such as cortisol,...

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  3. Congenital Adrenogenital Syndrome

    DefinitionCongenital? adrenogenital syndrome is another name for congenital? adrenal hyperplasia (CAH). It is a group of genetic (inborn) disorders where the adrenal glands cannot make some...

    March 6, 2026 • Rx Urology
  4. Congenital Adrenal Hyperplasia

    DefinitionCongenital? adrenal hyperplasia, often called CAH, is a group of genetic problems that affect the adrenal glands. These are two tiny glands that sit on top...

    March 5, 2026 • Rx Urology
  5. Cerebellar Ataxia Co-Occurrent with Ectodermal Dysplasia

    DefinitionCerebellar ataxia co-occurrent with ectodermal dysplasia, also called cerebellar ataxia-ectodermal dysplasia syndrome, is a very rare genetic condition where a person has both a brain balance...

    December 20, 2025 • Rx Urology
  6. C1q Nephropathy

    DefinitionC1q nephropathy is a rare kidney disease. It affects the filters of the kidney called glomeruli. In this disease, the body’s immune system leaves a protein...

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  7. Exstrophy of the Urinary Bladder Sequence

    DefinitionExstrophy of the urinary bladder sequence is a rare birth condition. It starts when a baby is growing in the womb. The lower belly wall does...

    October 28, 2025 • Rx Urology
  8. Bladder Exstrophy–Epispadias–Cloacal Exstrophy Complex (BEEC)

    DefinitionBladder exstrophy–epispadias–cloacal exstrophy complex (BEEC) is a group (a spectrum) of rare birth defects that affect the front wall of the belly and the lower urinary...

    October 28, 2025 • Rx Urology
  9. Bladder Exstrophy

    DefinitionBladder exstrophy is a rare birth defect. It happens when a baby’s lower tummy wall and the front wall of the bladder do not close before...

    October 28, 2025 • Rx Urology
  10. Polyomavirus-Associated Nephropathy (PAN)

    DefinitionPolyomavirus-associated nephropathy is kidney damage caused by reactivation of a common virus (usually BK polyomavirus) in people who receive a kidney transplant. Most adults were infected...

    October 28, 2025 • Rx Urology