Red Spots on the Glans: Possible Causes and Concerns - Urology

More Info

---

When it comes to the appearance of red spots on the glans (the head of the penis), there are several potential causes that should be considered. Given your recent sexual activity and your girlfriend's history of vaginal inflammation, it's important to approach this situation with caution and awareness of sexually transmitted infections (STIs) as well as other dermatological conditions.

1. Possible Causes of Red Spots: The red spots you are experiencing could be due to several factors, including:
- Irritation or Allergic Reaction: Sometimes, friction during sexual activity or the use of certain products (like lubricants or soaps) can cause irritation, leading to redness and spots.

- Infection: Given your girlfriend's history of vaginal inflammation, there is a possibility that a bacterial or yeast infection could be transmitted during intercourse. Conditions such as candidiasis (yeast infection) or bacterial vaginosis can cause irritation and inflammation, which might manifest as red spots.

- Sexually Transmitted Infections (STIs): Certain STIs, such as herpes or syphilis, can present with red spots or lesions on the genital area. If your girlfriend has an untreated infection, it could potentially be transmitted to you.

2. White Areas on the Glans: The white coloration around the red spots could indicate a few things:
- Fungal Infection: A common cause of white patches is a fungal infection, such as candidiasis, which can occur in both men and women.

- Lichen Sclerosus: This is a chronic skin condition that can cause white patches on the skin, including the genital area. It is more common in women but can affect men as well.

- Post-Inflammatory Changes: Sometimes, after an irritation or infection, the skin can change color temporarily as it heals.

3. Is It an STI?: While the symptoms you describe could be indicative of an STI, they are not definitive on their own. The presence of red spots and white areas warrants further evaluation. It is crucial to consider other symptoms you may have, such as pain, itching, discharge, or any systemic symptoms like fever.

4. What to Do Next:
- Seek Medical Attention: It is advisable to consult a healthcare provider or a dermatologist for a proper examination. They may perform tests to rule out STIs and other conditions.

- Avoid Sexual Activity: Until you have been evaluated, it is wise to refrain from sexual activity to prevent potential transmission of infections.

- Inform Your Partner: If an STI is diagnosed, it is important to inform your girlfriend so she can also seek treatment.

5. Prevention and Care: Moving forward, consider using protection during sexual activity to reduce the risk of STIs and other infections. Maintaining good genital hygiene and being aware of any changes in your body can also help in early detection and treatment of potential issues.

In summary, while the red spots on your glans could be due to irritation or an infection, the possibility of an STI should not be overlooked, especially given your girlfriend's history. A medical evaluation is essential to determine the exact cause and to receive appropriate treatment.