Yellow Bumps on the Glans and Foreskin: Causes and Solutions

Q: Yellow Bumps on the Glans and Foreskin: Causes and Solutions

Hello： It is important to maintain cleanliness every day and to dry thoroughly after washing (everyone should do this). <br>If you engage in sexual activity, ensure cleanliness and dryness. <br>If there is an increase in the number or size of lesions, please seek medical attentio

Pearly penile papules on the glans?

I recently noticed small yellowish growths at the urethral opening and on the foreskin.
I have phimosis and do not clean regularly.
Could this be caused by inadequate hygiene, or is there another reason?

Xiao Rui, 10~19 year old female. Ask Date: 2017/02/20

Dr. Du Shixi reply Urology

Hello: It is important to maintain cleanliness every day and to dry thoroughly after washing (everyone should do this).
If you engage in sexual activity, ensure cleanliness and dryness.
If there is an increase in the number or size of lesions, please seek medical attention.
Thank you for your inquiry.

Reply Date: 2017/02/20

More Info

The appearance of yellow bumps on the glans (the head of the penis) and foreskin can be concerning and may arise from various causes. Given your description of having phimosis (a condition where the foreskin cannot be easily retracted) and infrequent washing, it is possible that poor hygiene could contribute to the development of these bumps. However, there are several other potential causes to consider.

1. Sebaceous Cysts: These are small, benign lumps that can occur when sebaceous glands become blocked. They are typically painless and can appear yellowish due to the oily substance they contain.

2. Pearly Penile Papules: These are small, harmless bumps that are often found around the corona of the glans. They are a normal anatomical variant and do not require treatment.

3. Fordyce Spots: These are small, painless, pale yellow or white spots that are actually enlarged sebaceous glands. They are common and harmless.

4. Infections: If the bumps are accompanied by redness, swelling, pain, or discharge, it could indicate an infection such as balanitis (inflammation of the glans) or a sexually transmitted infection (STI). In such cases, it is important to seek medical attention.

5. Genital Warts: Caused by the human papillomavirus (HPV), these can appear as small, flesh-colored or yellowish bumps. They may require treatment if diagnosed.

6. Other Skin Conditions: Conditions such as eczema or psoriasis can also affect the genital area, leading to bumps or lesions.

Given that you mentioned having phimosis and not washing regularly, it is crucial to improve hygiene practices. Regular cleaning of the genital area can help prevent the buildup of smegma (a combination of dead skin cells and oils), which can contribute to irritation and infection. If you are unable to retract the foreskin, it may be beneficial to consult a healthcare provider for advice on proper hygiene and potential treatment options for phimosis.

Recommendations:
- Hygiene: Gently clean the area with warm water daily. Avoid harsh soaps that can irritate the sensitive skin.

- Observation: Monitor the bumps for any changes in size, color, or associated symptoms such as pain or discharge.

- Medical Consultation: If the bumps persist, worsen, or are accompanied by other symptoms (such as pain, itching, or discharge), it is advisable to see a healthcare provider. They can perform a physical examination and may conduct tests to determine the exact cause of the bumps.

In conclusion, while poor hygiene may contribute to the development of yellow bumps on the glans and foreskin, it is essential to consider other potential causes. Improving hygiene practices is a good first step, but if symptoms persist or worsen, seeking medical advice is crucial for proper diagnosis and treatment.

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