White Bumps on the Penis: Is It a STD or Something Else?

Q: White Bumps on the Penis: Is It a STD or Something Else?

Hello： This area cannot be diagnosed without examination, but it does not appear to be normal sebaceous glands (it could also be warts). <br>It is recommended to seek examination and treatment from a urology department at a hospital. <br>Wishing you good health.

I'm very worried, please provide an answer?

Hello doctor, my girlfriend and I are each other's first sexual partners.
We are monogamous and both very certain that we do not have any sexually transmitted infections.
However, recently while showering, I noticed several small white bumps, about 1 millimeter in size, in the folds near the urethral opening of the glans.
There are approximately seven of them, and they are only visible when I compress the glans or during an erection, as they do not merge with each other.
When touched, they have a distinct bump-like feel, but there is no discomfort.
Each bump is flat-topped, and there are no other signs that would typically indicate the early stages of genital warts.
I also have a condition of phimosis, and there are 3 to 4 clusters of sebaceous glands on the foreskin that have a noticeable odor.
I have compared the information I found online with the appearance of my own sebaceous glands, and they look quite similar.
Additionally, I have a habit of masturbation and sometimes do not clean the area properly.
Therefore, I hope you can tell me if this is a sexually transmitted infection.
Thank you.
I have attached four photos and hope you can help me resolve my concerns and clarify whether this resembles a sexually transmitted infection.
If it is not genital warts, what could it be?

G, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2018/08/13

Dr. Du Shixi reply Urology

Hello: This area cannot be diagnosed without examination, but it does not appear to be normal sebaceous glands (it could also be warts).
It is recommended to seek examination and treatment from a urology department at a hospital.
Wishing you good health.

Reply Date: 2018/08/13

More Info

When it comes to the appearance of white bumps on the penis, it is understandable to be concerned about potential sexually transmitted diseases (STDs) or other medical conditions. Based on your description, it seems that you have observed small, white, flat-topped bumps near the urethral opening on the glans penis. Given that you and your girlfriend are each other's first sexual partners and have been monogamous, the likelihood of these bumps being an STD is significantly reduced.

The characteristics you described—small, flat-topped, and not causing any discomfort—are suggestive of a few benign conditions rather than an STD. One possibility is that these bumps could be sebaceous glands or pearly penile papules, which are common anatomical variations in men. Pearly penile papules are small, harmless bumps that typically appear around the corona of the glans and are not associated with any disease or infection. They are often mistaken for warts but are completely normal and do not require treatment.

Another possibility is that these bumps could be related to the presence of smegma, which is a combination of dead skin cells, oils, and other bodily secretions that can accumulate under the foreskin, especially in individuals with a longer foreskin. If proper hygiene is not maintained, this can lead to the buildup of smegma, which may appear as white or yellowish lumps. Regular cleaning of the area can help prevent this accumulation.

It is also worth noting that while you mentioned the absence of other symptoms typically associated with STDs, such as itching, burning, or unusual discharge, it is still important to monitor any changes in the appearance of these bumps or the development of new symptoms. If the bumps change in size, color, or number, or if you experience any discomfort, it would be prudent to consult a healthcare professional for a thorough examination.

In terms of hygiene, it is essential to maintain proper genital hygiene, especially if you have a longer foreskin. Gently retracting the foreskin during bathing and cleaning the area with mild soap and water can help prevent the buildup of smegma and reduce the risk of infections.

If you are still concerned about the possibility of an STD or if the bumps persist, it may be beneficial to seek an evaluation from a healthcare provider, such as a urologist or dermatologist. They can perform a physical examination and, if necessary, conduct tests to rule out any infections or other conditions.

In summary, the white bumps you are observing are likely benign and not indicative of an STD, especially given your monogamous relationship and the absence of other symptoms. However, maintaining good hygiene and monitoring any changes in the bumps is essential. If you have any lingering concerns, do not hesitate to consult a healthcare professional for peace of mind and appropriate guidance.

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