Pearly Penile Papules: Causes and Concerns

Q: Pearly Penile Papules: Causes and Concerns

Hello： These types of papules can sometimes be more pronounced and sometimes less so, and they are unrelated to DIY activities. <br>Wishing you good health.

Pearly penile papules

A row of small, pimple-like bumps has appeared on the side of the glans (the other side is unaffected), but they are not located at the coronal sulcus; they are slightly above it on the glans.
When touched, they feel quite crowded, with some being larger and some smaller.
However, they do not affect daily life as they are not painful or itchy.
Additionally, I have no sexual experience and usually engage in masturbation, about once a day, possibly up to twice.
Could this be due to excessive masturbation?

nan, 10~19 year old female. Ask Date: 2023/03/04

Dr. Du Shixi reply Urology

Hello: These types of papules can sometimes be more pronounced and sometimes less so, and they are unrelated to DIY activities.
Wishing you good health.

Reply Date: 2023/03/04

More Info

Pearly penile papules (PPP) are small, benign growths that typically appear on the glans (the head) of the penis. They are often described as small, white or flesh-colored bumps that can resemble pimples or small pearls. It is important to understand that these papules are a normal anatomical variant and are not associated with any disease or infection. They are particularly common in young men and are considered a normal finding.

The exact cause of pearly penile papules is not fully understood, but they are thought to be related to the natural anatomy of the penis. They are not caused by sexual activity, poor hygiene, or any form of irritation. In fact, they are not harmful and do not require treatment unless they cause psychological distress or concern for the individual.

In your case, the presence of these papules on one side of the glans, while the other side appears normal, is typical for PPP. The fact that they are not painful or itchy and do not interfere with your daily life is a reassuring sign. It is also important to note that frequent masturbation, as you mentioned, is not a cause of PPP. Masturbation is a normal sexual activity and does not lead to the development of these papules.

If you are experiencing anxiety or concern about the appearance of these papules, it may be helpful to consult a healthcare professional, such as a urologist or dermatologist, who can provide reassurance and confirm that what you are experiencing is indeed pearly penile papules. They can also rule out other potential conditions that may cause similar symptoms, such as genital warts or other skin lesions.

In summary, pearly penile papules are a common and benign condition that many men experience. They are not a sign of any underlying health issue and do not require treatment unless they cause significant distress. If you have further concerns or if there are changes in the appearance of the papules, seeking medical advice is always a good option for peace of mind.

Similar Q&A

Understanding Pearly Penile Papules: Causes and Concerns

There were originally two spots on the glans and the inner foreskin. I have been squeezing out something similar to comedones for six months, and since I haven't had sexual intercourse during this time, I'm unsure if there is an infection.

Dr. Li Yilun reply Urology
Common skin protrusions may be caused by keratin abnormality leading to milia, which appear as skin-colored or light brown, round, multiple small nodules resembling tiny beads, about the size of a pinhead. These are primarily due to cystic retention of keratin in the upper dermis...

Understanding Pearly Penile Papules: Symptoms, Concerns, and Care

Hello Dr. Du, thank you for your quick response! I have some follow-up questions I would like to ask you! Regarding the first issue I mentioned earlier, I would like to elaborate a bit more. Almost two years ago, I visited a doctor due to inflammation caused by phimosis. At that ...

Dr. Du Shixi reply Urology
Hello: Pearly penile papules do not require attention, but genital warts should be taken seriously. Sometimes it can be difficult for physicians to differentiate between them, and a general assessment is often made. In my clinical practice, I always confirm with a pathology repor...

Understanding Pearly Penile Papules: Causes and Concerns

Hello Doctor, I previously inquired about a condition I have where the surface of my glans is covered with some papules during erection, but they are almost invisible when not erect and become more apparent when I intentionally squeeze. I subsequently consulted a dermatologist, w...

Dr. Xu Weikai reply Urology
Sam: Hello, pearly penile papules generally appear at the junction of the glans and the shaft of the penis, and are less common on the glans itself. However, if a dermatologist has examined them, they should be benign and not a major concern. If there are any unclear points, feel...

Understanding Pearly Penile Papules: Causes and Concerns

Hello Doctor: I have noticed small white bumps appearing on the veins in my genital area. The number is not excessive. I have also had pearly penile papules; could this be related? The bumps on the veins do not hurt when touched, and there is no discharge when pressed. If I pull ...

Dr. Jiang Yini reply Urology
The small white spots on the penis can have various causes, including pearly penile papules, viral infections, or follicular keratosis. It is advisable to consult a urologist or dermatologist for an examination.