Painful Bumps on the Foreskin: Causes and Concerns - Urology

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Hello! Thank you for reaching out with your concerns regarding the bumps on your foreskin. Based on your description, it sounds like you are experiencing a variety of lesions that could be caused by several different conditions. While I cannot provide a definitive diagnosis without a physical examination, I can discuss some potential causes and considerations regarding your symptoms.

1. Pearly Penile Papules: These are small, soft, painless bumps that can appear around the corona of the glans (the head of the penis). They are a normal anatomical variant and are not a cause for concern. They do not require treatment unless they cause psychological distress.

2. Fordyce Spots: These are small, painless, pale bumps that are actually enlarged sebaceous glands. They are common and harmless, often appearing on the shaft of the penis or the scrotum.

3. Genital Warts: Caused by the human papillomavirus (HPV), these can appear as soft, fleshy bumps. They may vary in size and can sometimes be itchy or uncomfortable. If you have had unprotected sexual intercourse, it is important to consider this possibility.

4. Herpes Simplex Virus (HSV): If the bumps are painful, blister-like, or associated with other symptoms such as itching or burning, they could be indicative of a herpes infection. Herpes lesions can appear as small, fluid-filled blisters that eventually crust over.

5. Balanitis: This is an inflammation of the glans and can be caused by infections, irritants, or poor hygiene. Symptoms may include redness, swelling, and sometimes lesions.

6. Folliculitis: This condition occurs when hair follicles become inflamed, often due to infection or irritation. It can lead to small, red bumps that may be tender.

7. Other Infections: Various sexually transmitted infections (STIs) can present with lesions or bumps on the genital area. It is crucial to consider this, especially given your history of unprotected intercourse.

Given that you mentioned the bumps are soft and not painful to the touch but sting when disinfected, this could suggest an inflammatory or infectious process. The presence of any broken skin or ulceration may also indicate a need for further evaluation.


Recommendations:
- Seek Medical Attention: It is essential to consult a healthcare provider, preferably a urologist or dermatologist, for a thorough examination. They may perform tests, including swabs or biopsies, to determine the exact nature of the lesions.

- Avoid Self-Diagnosis: While it’s helpful to gather information, self-diagnosing can lead to unnecessary anxiety or mismanagement of the condition.

- Practice Safe Sex: Moving forward, consider using condoms to reduce the risk of STIs and protect your sexual health.

- Monitor Symptoms: Keep track of any changes in the lesions, such as size, color, or associated symptoms like pain or discharge, and report these to your healthcare provider.

In conclusion, while there are several benign conditions that could explain the bumps on your foreskin, it is crucial to have a professional evaluation to rule out any serious issues, especially given your sexual history. Early diagnosis and treatment can help alleviate any concerns and ensure your health is managed appropriately. Thank you for your question, and I wish you the best in your health journey!