Red Spots on the Glans: Causes and Solutions for Men - Urology

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Red spots on the glans penis?


Every time I have intercourse with my boyfriend, small red spots appear on his glans 1-2 days later.
He says they are not painful or itchy.
Initially, we thought it was an allergic reaction to the condom and lubricant, but even after not using either, the red spots still appear.
We've been together for two years, and during the first year, there were no such issues, but starting from the second year, he gets red spots every time after we have intercourse.
What could be the cause?

Xiao Qing, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2020/06/24

Dr. Cai Zhuorong reply Urology


If the symptoms are self-limiting, allergies could indeed be a possible explanation.
However, if there are any concerns, it is still advisable to seek a physician's evaluation.

Reply Date: 2020/06/24

More Info


Red spots on the glans (the head of the penis) can be concerning for both men and their partners. While the presence of these spots may not be accompanied by pain or itching, it is essential to understand the potential causes and solutions.
One common cause of red spots on the glans is irritation or inflammation, which can result from various factors, including friction during sexual activity, allergic reactions to lubricants or condoms, or even infections. Given that your boyfriend has experienced these spots after sexual activity, it is plausible that friction or mild irritation could be contributing factors.
Another potential cause is a condition known as balanitis, which is an inflammation of the glans. Balanitis can be caused by poor hygiene, infections (such as yeast infections or sexually transmitted infections), or skin conditions like psoriasis or eczema. If the red spots persist, it may be worth considering whether there are any underlying infections or skin conditions that need to be addressed.

In your case, since the red spots have appeared consistently after sexual activity over the past year, it may be beneficial to explore the following solutions:
1. Hygiene Practices: Ensure that both partners maintain good hygiene before and after sexual activity. This includes washing the genital area with mild soap and water to prevent irritation and infections.

2. Lubrication: If friction is a concern, consider using a water-based lubricant during sexual activity. This can help reduce irritation and prevent the development of red spots.

3. Avoid Irritants: If your boyfriend has previously experienced irritation from lubricants or condoms, it may be worth trying different products or avoiding them altogether to see if the situation improves.

4. Consult a Healthcare Professional: If the red spots persist or worsen, it is crucial for your boyfriend to consult a healthcare professional. A doctor can perform a physical examination, take a medical history, and possibly conduct tests to determine the underlying cause of the red spots. This is especially important if there are any changes in symptoms, such as the development of pain, itching, or discharge.

5. Consider Allergies or Sensitivities: If your boyfriend has a history of allergies or sensitivities, it may be beneficial to evaluate whether any new products (such as soaps, lotions, or laundry detergents) could be contributing to the irritation.

6. Monitor Symptoms: Keep track of when the red spots appear and any associated activities or products used. This information can be helpful for the healthcare provider in diagnosing the issue.

In conclusion, while red spots on the glans may not always indicate a serious problem, it is essential to address them, especially if they are recurrent. By maintaining good hygiene, using appropriate lubricants, and consulting a healthcare professional if necessary, you and your boyfriend can work towards resolving this issue and ensuring a healthy sexual relationship.

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