Painful Pimples on the Penis: Causes and Solutions

Pearly penile papules?

I have been experiencing pimples on my penis that resemble acne for many years.
Most of them are painful, but they often heal on their own after I squeeze out the pus.
Recently, new ones have appeared, and I am wondering if this is harmful to my body.
I also had a history of having water blisters on my penis when I was younger, which makes me feel concerned.
Additionally, if I leave them untreated, they sometimes grow larger and become more painful until the pus is expelled.
I would like to know if there are ways to improve this condition.
Thank you.

re, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2001/04/05

Dr. Liu Jianting reply Urology

There are hair follicles and sebaceous glands on the penile foreskin, which can occasionally develop into pustules resembling acne.
In fact, most men experience these "folliculitis" episodes.
When this occurs, it is important not to squeeze them with your hands to avoid exacerbating the infection; it is best to consult a urologist at a hospital.
Of course, in addition to washing your face daily, it is essential to keep other parts of your body clean as well!

Reply Date: 2001/04/05

More Info

Painful pimples on the penis can be concerning and may arise from various causes. Understanding the underlying reasons for these lesions is crucial for determining appropriate treatment options and assessing any potential health risks.

Possible Causes
1. Folliculitis: This is an inflammation of the hair follicles, which can occur anywhere on the body, including the genital area. It often presents as small, red, painful bumps that may contain pus. Folliculitis can be caused by bacterial infections, irritation from shaving, or friction from clothing.

2. Pearly Penile Papules: These are small, harmless bumps that can appear around the corona of the glans (the head of the penis). They are not painful and do not require treatment, but they can sometimes be mistaken for pimples.

3. Genital Warts: Caused by the human papillomavirus (HPV), these can appear as small, flesh-colored or gray growths. They may be painful and can spread through sexual contact.

4. Herpes Simplex Virus (HSV): This virus can cause painful blisters or sores on the genital area. These lesions can be recurrent and may be accompanied by flu-like symptoms.

5. Cysts: Sebaceous cysts can develop in the genital area and may become inflamed or infected, leading to painful bumps.

6. Balanitis: This is an inflammation of the glans, often due to infections or irritants, which can lead to painful lesions.

Health Risks
While many of these conditions are benign, some can pose health risks. For instance, untreated genital warts can lead to complications, and herpes can be transmitted to sexual partners. Persistent or worsening lesions should be evaluated by a healthcare professional to rule out serious conditions, including sexually transmitted infections (STIs).

Treatment Options
1. Good Hygiene: Keeping the area clean and dry can help prevent infections. Avoiding tight clothing can reduce friction and irritation.

2. Topical Treatments: Over-the-counter creams containing benzoyl peroxide or salicylic acid may help with folliculitis or acne-like lesions. For warts, topical treatments specifically designed for HPV may be effective.

3. Antibiotics: If a bacterial infection is suspected, a healthcare provider may prescribe antibiotics.

4. Antiviral Medications: For herpes, antiviral medications can help manage outbreaks and reduce symptoms.

5. Cryotherapy or Laser Treatment: For persistent warts or other lesions, dermatological procedures may be necessary.

6. Avoiding Irritants: If the bumps are related to irritation from products or activities, identifying and avoiding these triggers can help.

When to See a Doctor
If the painful pimples persist, worsen, or are accompanied by other symptoms such as fever, unusual discharge, or systemic symptoms, it is essential to seek medical advice. A healthcare provider can perform a physical examination, possibly conduct tests (like swabs or biopsies), and provide a definitive diagnosis and treatment plan.

In conclusion, while painful pimples on the penis can often be benign, they can also indicate underlying health issues that require attention. Maintaining good hygiene, avoiding irritants, and consulting with a healthcare professional for persistent or concerning symptoms are key steps in managing this condition effectively.

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