Painful Bumps on the Genitals: Causes and When to Seek Help - Urology

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It sounds like you are experiencing some concerning symptoms related to your genital area, including a painful bump and some discoloration. While I cannot provide a diagnosis, I can offer some insights into potential causes and when it might be necessary to seek medical attention.

Firstly, the presence of a painful bump on the penis that has pus suggests a possible infection. This could be due to a variety of reasons, including:
1. Folliculitis: This is an infection of the hair follicles that can occur anywhere on the body, including the genital area. It can cause red, painful bumps that may contain pus.

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 infectious and do not require treatment.

3. Genital Warts: Caused by the human papillomavirus (HPV), these can appear as small, painless bumps. They may not always be painful, but if they become irritated or infected, they can cause discomfort.

4. Herpes Simplex Virus: This can cause painful sores or blisters in the genital area. If you experience additional symptoms like fever or flu-like symptoms, it may be worth considering.

5. Other Infections: Bacterial or fungal infections can also lead to bumps or lesions in the genital area.

Regarding the yellow spots you mentioned, if they are not painful and have appeared recently, they could be related to a variety of benign conditions, such as:
- Sebaceous Cysts: These are small lumps that can occur when sebaceous glands become blocked. They are usually harmless and painless.

- Fordyce Spots: These are small, painless, pale bumps that are actually enlarged oil glands and are completely normal.

Given that you have not engaged in sexual activity, some sexually transmitted infections (STIs) may be less likely, but it is still important to consider all possibilities.


When to Seek Medical Help
You should definitely consider seeking medical attention if:
- The bump becomes increasingly painful or shows signs of spreading.

- You notice any additional symptoms such as fever, chills, or flu-like symptoms.

- The bump does not improve or worsens over a few days.

- You have any concerns about the appearance of the yellow spots or if they change in size or color.


What to Expect at the Doctor's Office
When you visit a healthcare provider, they will likely perform a physical examination and may ask about your medical history, any recent activities, and symptoms. Depending on their findings, they may recommend:
- A swab of the bump to test for infection.

- Blood tests to check for STIs if deemed necessary.

- A referral to a dermatologist or urologist if the condition is complex.


Conclusion
While it can be anxiety-inducing to notice changes in your genital area, many conditions are treatable and not serious. It is always better to err on the side of caution and consult a healthcare professional who can provide a proper diagnosis and treatment plan tailored to your specific situation. Remember, your health and peace of mind are paramount, and seeking help is a proactive step towards addressing your concerns.