Small Bumps on the Penis: Causes and Treatment Options

Prepuce

I have many small bumps at the tip of my foreskin (the area covering the glans), which look similar to blisters but do not burst.
They are not painful or itchy, each measuring less than 1mm in diameter, with some even smaller.
Additionally, on both sides where the foreskin connects to the glans, there are also seven or eight small white bumps, which are also not painful or itchy.
When not erect, the foreskin completely covers the glans, and during an erection, the glans is fully exposed.
What could this be, and what treatment might be necessary? Thank you!

St, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2000/11/15

Dr. Liu Jianting reply Urology

Your observations about your body are indeed detailed; you even noticed things that require a magnifying glass.
However, based on your description, it seems like everything is within normal tissue structure.
If you are still concerned, please consult a urologist for an in-person evaluation and advice.

Reply Date: 2000/11/15

More Info

Understanding small bumps on the penis can be concerning, but it’s important to remember that many conditions are benign and do not require aggressive treatment. Based on your description of small, painless, non-itchy bumps on the foreskin and around the glans, there are several potential explanations.

1. Pearly Penile Papules: One of the most common causes of small, painless bumps on the penis is pearly penile papules. These are small, dome-shaped, white or flesh-colored bumps that typically appear around the corona of the glans (the head of the penis). They are completely normal anatomical variations and are not associated with any disease or infection. They do not require treatment unless the individual desires removal for cosmetic reasons.

2. Fordyce Spots: Another possibility is Fordyce spots, which are small, painless, pale bumps that can appear on the shaft of the penis or the scrotum. These are sebaceous glands that are not associated with hair follicles and are considered a normal variant. Like pearly penile papules, they do not require treatment.

3. Sebaceous Cysts: These are small, non-painful lumps that can occur anywhere on the body, including the genital area. They are usually filled with a fatty substance and are benign. If they become inflamed or infected, they may require treatment.

4. Genital Warts: While you mentioned that the bumps are not painful or itchy, it’s important to consider the possibility of genital warts caused by the human papillomavirus (HPV). These can appear as small, flesh-colored or white bumps and may require treatment if they are diagnosed.

5. Other Conditions: Other less common conditions, such as molluscum contagiosum (a viral infection that causes small, raised, painless bumps) or lichen planus (which can cause white, lacy patches or bumps), could also be considered. However, these conditions often present with additional symptoms.

Given the benign nature of many of these conditions, if the bumps are not causing any discomfort or changes in your sexual health, they may not require any treatment. However, it is always advisable to consult a healthcare professional for a proper diagnosis. A dermatologist or urologist can perform a physical examination and may recommend a biopsy if there is any uncertainty about the diagnosis.

In terms of treatment options, if the bumps are determined to be benign and you wish to have them removed for cosmetic reasons, options may include cryotherapy, laser treatment, or surgical excision. However, these procedures are typically not necessary unless the bumps cause psychological distress or discomfort.

In conclusion, while small bumps on the penis can be concerning, many are benign and do not require treatment. It is essential to seek a professional evaluation to ensure an accurate diagnosis and to discuss any concerns you may have regarding your sexual health. Regular check-ups and open communication with your healthcare provider can help alleviate worries and ensure your well-being.

Similar Q&A

Understanding Small Pus Bumps on the Penis: Causes and Treatments

A small pustule on the penis could be indicative of several conditions, including a follicular infection, a sexually transmitted infection, or a benign cyst. It is important to consult a healthcare professional for an accurate diagnosis and appropriate treatment.

Dr. Cai Zhuorong reply Urology
It is recommended that you seek medical treatment.

Understanding and Treating Small Bumps on the Penis: A Urology Perspective

I developed small, painless, and itchy bumps on my penis during high school. Some of them can be squeezed off. Later, I underwent a circumcision, and when I asked my doctor, he said they were hair follicles. Are they harmful to my health? What methods can be used to treat them, a...

Dr. Xu Weikai reply Urology
Pikachu: Hello, the small white thing on your penis appears to be an inflammatory reaction caused by a clogged hair follicle, similar to acne. You can improve it by enhancing local hygiene. It is generally acceptable to squeeze it with your hand, but be cautious with wound care t...

Understanding and Treating Bumps on the Penis and Scrotum

There are small blister-like bumps on the foreskin and scrotum that have been present for two months, and they seem to be spreading and increasing in size. I do not want to go to the hospital; what medication should I apply or what should I do?

Dr. Chen Junfu reply Urology
Hello, Anonymous: I apologize, but based on your description, it is difficult to make an accurate assessment. I recommend that you visit a dermatologist or urologist in person for a thorough examination and diagnosis.

Understanding Small Bumps on the Penis: Causes and Treatments

Hello Doctor, recently I have been experiencing dryness of the penis, which has led to peeling. During the Lunar New Year, I noticed a small bump on my penis, approximately 1 mm in diameter and height, resembling a pimple. The skin in that area is thin, and if I scratch it with m...

Dr. Du Shixi reply Urology
Hello: You can undergo surgery in the urology department to remove it for pathological diagnosis. It is generally uncommon for cauliflower-like growths to increase in size. Wishing you good health.