Slight Burning in the Groin After a Week of Finasteride

Hi Dr. Rassman,

I started taking 1.25mg of finasteride last week and I have to say up to now there do not seem to be any sexual side effects. The only thing which concerns me a little bit is this slight burning sensation in my groin area, I think its in the prostate area. Is this a common side effect showing that the drug is working? Should this go away after a while?

Your advice would be quite helpful cause there are a lot of bad publicity out there for Propecia and I wanted a more balanced opinion. Thanks!

Please keep in mind that not all sexual dysfunction should be linked with finasteride use. You may have a preexisting medical condition that you are only noticing now that you are more focused on the issue. I have read some rare reports on testicular pain with taking Propecia, but the association is tenuous.

Interesting facts:

1. Finasteride causes sexual side effects in only 1% of men, while some form of erectile dysfunction has a much higher incidence in men (not taking finasteride)
2. You cannot feel your prostate unless you are probing deep inside your rectum with your finger. So I doubt that what you are feeling in your groin is your prostate.

My advice would be for you to discuss these issues with the doctor that prescribed you the medication and have a good physical exam.