Red Bumps on Glans: What to Know About Temporary Symptoms and HPV

There are red spots on the glans that disappear after intercourse?

I previously posted about this, but my boyfriend had smooth red spots (we haven't been intimate very often; it had been 2-3 weeks since the last time).
There were no raised areas, and they disappeared after we were intimate.
Currently, there are no symptoms like pain or itching.
I have received the HPV vaccine; should he also get vaccinated? What other methods can we use for prevention?

Dian Dian, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2016/05/04

Dr. Li Xinyi reply Urology

The HPV vaccine is not a 4-valent vaccine and cannot prevent all types of HPV, so it cannot provide you with specific recommendations.

Reply Date: 2016/05/04

More Info

When it comes to human papillomavirus (HPV) and its potential symptoms, including red bumps on the glans (the head of the penis), it is essential to understand a few key points. First, HPV is a common sexually transmitted infection that can manifest in various ways, including genital warts, which may appear as smooth or raised bumps. However, not all bumps or lesions on the genital area are necessarily caused by HPV; they could be due to other conditions such as folliculitis, pearly penile papules, or even friction from sexual activity.

In your case, you mentioned that the red bumps on your boyfriend's glans were smooth, temporary, and disappeared after sexual activity without causing pain or itching. This suggests that they might not be a significant concern, especially if they resolved quickly and did not recur. However, it is always advisable for individuals experiencing any unusual symptoms to consult a healthcare provider for a proper diagnosis and reassurance.

Regarding the HPV vaccine, it is designed to protect against the most common high-risk strains of HPV that can lead to cervical cancer and other HPV-related cancers, as well as low-risk strains that cause genital warts. Since you have already received the HPV vaccine, it is beneficial for you, but it is also recommended for your boyfriend to get vaccinated. The vaccine is most effective when administered before the onset of sexual activity, but it can still provide benefits even after exposure to the virus. Vaccination can help protect against strains of HPV that one may not have been exposed to yet.

In terms of prevention, aside from vaccination, the following measures can help reduce the risk of HPV transmission and other sexually transmitted infections (STIs):
1. Consistent Condom Use: While condoms do not provide complete protection against HPV, they can significantly reduce the risk of transmission of the virus and other STIs.

2. Regular Health Check-ups: Both partners should have regular sexual health check-ups, including HPV testing and Pap smears for women, to monitor for any changes or signs of infection.

3. Limit Number of Sexual Partners: Reducing the number of sexual partners can decrease the risk of exposure to HPV and other STIs.

4. Open Communication: Discussing sexual health openly with your partner can help both of you make informed decisions about your sexual practices and health.

5. Avoiding Sexual Activity During Outbreaks: If either partner has visible symptoms or outbreaks of any STI, it is best to avoid sexual activity until cleared by a healthcare provider.

In conclusion, while the red bumps on your boyfriend's glans may not be a cause for concern, it is essential to remain vigilant about sexual health. Encourage your boyfriend to get vaccinated against HPV, and both of you should continue to practice safe sex and have regular health check-ups. If any new symptoms arise or if there are concerns about STIs, seeking medical advice is always the best course of action.

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