Normal Variations in Genital Appearance: A Medical Perspective

What are the issues related to the reproductive organs?

Hello doctor, I visited a urologist at the end of 2019 because I noticed a yellowish-white spot on the surface of my glans.
Sometimes, when I shower, it appears less noticeable, and I feel like it varies between being obvious and not.
Out of concern, I told my mom, and she took me to see a urologist.
The doctor only had me show him the spot behind a curtain; he looked at it and said it was nothing to worry about, that it was just a spot and not what I thought was genital warts.
I would like to know if it is normal for such spots to appear on the glans of the genitalia.
It seemed flat at the time, and when my mom asked if a biopsy or laser treatment was necessary, the doctor said no and just advised me to keep the area clean by retracting the foreskin.
Although I have not engaged in sexual intercourse, I thought it would be good to get tested for STDs.
The doctor allowed me to have a blood test, and I went home.
Later, when I received the report showing an anti-HIV result of 0.13, the doctor told me everything was fine and that I was negative, so I could be at ease.

Today, while showering, I noticed that the spot is still there; it hasn't grown larger, but it hasn't shrunk either.
Should I really not be concerned about it? Additionally, it seems that when I retract the foreskin, there are also some yellowish-white spots visible on the skin.
Is this normal? I occasionally worry about STDs like genital warts or other sexually transmitted infections, or whether the symptoms would be different.
If these spots have not changed after more than two years, does that mean I should not worry about them? I apologize for bothering you, doctor, and thank you for clarifying this for me.
Here is a photo of the area I circled; the spot on the glans has been there for two years, but it seems there are also some when I pull back the foreskin.
https://ibb.co/Wzm2wyq

Hs, 10~19 year old female. Ask Date: 2021/10/28

Dr. Hong Yuanbin reply Internal Medicine

Hello, based on the image, it appears to be some glands on the glans rather than an infectious disease.
If there have been no significant changes over the past two years, it is advisable to simply monitor the situation unless there are any notable changes that would require a follow-up with a healthcare provider.
Thank you for your inquiry.

Reply Date: 2021/10/28

More Info

Understanding normal variations in genital appearance is crucial for both psychological comfort and physical health. It’s common for individuals to notice changes or irregularities in their genital area and to feel concerned about what these might indicate. In your case, the yellowish-white spots you described on the glans (the head of the penis) and under the foreskin can be a source of anxiety, especially when one is unsure of their nature.

Firstly, it’s important to recognize that the genital area can exhibit a variety of normal anatomical features that may appear unusual but are not necessarily indicative of a medical problem. For instance, sebaceous glands, which are small oil-producing glands, can sometimes be more prominent in certain individuals, leading to the appearance of small, yellowish spots. These are typically harmless and are a normal part of skin anatomy.

In your situation, the fact that a healthcare professional examined the area and determined that there was no cause for concern is reassuring. The recommendation to maintain cleanliness by retracting the foreskin and washing the area is standard advice to prevent any potential irritation or infection. It’s also worth noting that the appearance of these spots can fluctuate based on factors such as hygiene, skin condition, and even hormonal changes.

Regarding your concerns about sexually transmitted infections (STIs) such as genital warts (caused by the human papillomavirus, or HPV), it’s important to understand that these typically present differently. Genital warts often appear as raised, fleshy bumps rather than flat spots, and they can vary in color and size. The fact that your spots have remained unchanged over two years and were evaluated by a doctor who found no cause for concern suggests that they are likely benign.

The negative HIV test result you received is also a positive indicator of your sexual health, especially since you mentioned that you have not engaged in sexual activity. However, if you ever have concerns about STIs, it’s always a good idea to discuss them with a healthcare provider, who can recommend appropriate testing based on your sexual history and any symptoms you may experience.

In summary, the yellowish-white spots you’ve observed are likely normal anatomical variations, especially since they have not changed over time and were evaluated by a physician. Maintaining good hygiene and monitoring any changes in the appearance of your genital area is wise. If you notice any new symptoms, such as pain, itching, or changes in the spots, or if you have any further concerns, don’t hesitate to seek medical advice. Regular check-ups with a healthcare provider can help ensure that any potential issues are addressed promptly and can provide peace of mind regarding your health.

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