Red Spots on Glans: Causes, Concerns, and Treatment Options

Red spots on the glans?

Doctor, I have a question: Three days ago, I had a one-night stand with a girl, and now I've noticed many red spots on my glans and foreskin that look like small blisters.
They are not painful or itchy.
I didn't shower immediately after the encounter.
What disease could this be? The main concern is whether it is treatable.
I'm really worried.

manbbo, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2005/11/15

Dr. Xu Weikai reply Urology

Hello, first you need to determine whether it is a blister or a rash, otherwise it cannot be accurately assessed.
I suspect it is most likely an infection or a localized allergic reaction (to substances such as those found in condoms).
As for the type of infection, further testing will be necessary.
It is advisable to take a shower immediately; if you did not use a condom, the effectiveness may not be 100%.
It is best to use protection throughout.
If possible, based on moral responsibility, I hope you can inform the lady about your current condition and ask if she has experienced any unusual symptoms.
If she has, she should seek medical attention.
My intention is not to assign blame but to notify her that there may be an infection, so appropriate treatment can be pursued.
Next, I recommend that you undergo some preventive testing, specifically blood tests for HIV and syphilis two months from now.
If those tests are still normal at that time, you can conclude that you did not contract those sexually transmitted infections from this encounter.
Regarding the condition of your glans, I strongly advise you to seek medical attention promptly.
In a few days, the lesions may change, making diagnosis more difficult (meaning fresh lesions are easier to diagnose).

Sincerely,
Director of Urology,
Taitung Hospital, Department of Health, Executive Yuan
Dr.
Hsu Wei-Kai

Reply Date: 2005/11/15

More Info

Red spots on the glans (the head of the penis) can be concerning, especially after a recent sexual encounter. While I cannot provide a diagnosis without a physical examination, I can offer some insights into potential causes, concerns, and treatment options for your situation.

Possible Causes of Red Spots on the Glans
1. Irritation or Allergic Reaction: Sometimes, red spots can be a result of irritation from friction during sexual activity or an allergic reaction to products such as soaps, lubricants, or condoms. This type of irritation is usually not serious and can resolve on its own.

2. Infections:
- Sexually Transmitted Infections (STIs): Certain STIs, such as herpes or syphilis, can cause red spots or sores on the genital area. Herpes may present as small blisters that can burst and become painful, while syphilis may start as painless sores.

- Fungal Infections: Conditions like candidiasis (yeast infection) can also lead to red spots or rashes on the glans, often accompanied by other symptoms like discharge or itching.

- Bacterial Infections: Bacterial infections can also cause redness and irritation.

3. Pearly Penile Papules: These are small, harmless bumps that can appear on the glans and are often mistaken for an infection. They are a normal anatomical variation and do not require treatment.

4. Fordyce Spots: These are small, painless, pale bumps that can appear on the penis and are caused by enlarged sebaceous glands. They are benign and do not require treatment.

Concerns
Given your recent sexual encounter, it is important to consider the possibility of an STI. While the absence of pain or itching is a good sign, it does not rule out the presence of an infection. Some STIs can be asymptomatic, meaning they do not show symptoms initially but can still be transmitted to partners and may lead to complications if left untreated.

Treatment Options
1. Self-Care: If the spots are due to irritation, keeping the area clean and dry can help. Avoiding irritants such as scented soaps or lotions is advisable. Over-the-counter hydrocortisone cream may help reduce inflammation if irritation is suspected.

2. Consult a Healthcare Provider: It is crucial to see a healthcare provider for an accurate diagnosis. They may perform a physical examination and, if necessary, order tests to determine if an infection is present. If an STI is diagnosed, appropriate treatment (usually antibiotics or antiviral medications) will be prescribed.

3. Avoid Sexual Activity: Until you have been evaluated by a healthcare provider, it is wise to avoid sexual activity to prevent potential transmission of an infection to partners.

4. Follow-Up: If you notice any changes in symptoms, such as the development of pain, discharge, or the appearance of new lesions, seek medical attention promptly.

Conclusion
While red spots on the glans can be caused by various factors, including irritation or infections, it is essential to consult a healthcare provider for an accurate diagnosis and appropriate treatment. Early intervention can help prevent complications and ensure a swift recovery. Remember, sexual health is an important aspect of overall well-being, and seeking help is a responsible step.

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