Urethral Bumps and Tight Foreskin: What You Need to Know

Bubbles at the urethral opening?

Hello Dr.
Liu: I have developed two bubble-like bumps on either side of my urethral opening.
They are not itchy or painful and have persisted for about one to two months.
A couple of weeks ago, I visited a doctor who suggested it might be an infection (though he seemed uncertain).
However, I am sure that my wife and I have only been intimate with each other.
He prescribed an ointment, but it doesn't seem to have much effect.

Additionally, around the same time, I noticed a tight band-like structure around the outside of my foreskin.
It is usually not painful or itchy, but it does cause pain when I try to retract the foreskin during an erection (due to the tightness), and I can see that the area of the penis appears constricted because of the tight foreskin.

What could these two phenomena be? Should I see a urologist or a dermatologist for these symptoms? Thank you.

Niming, 40~49 year old female. Ask Date: 2009/05/03

Dr. Liu Jianting reply Urology

The first thing is that it's hard to understand and imagine just by listening to your description.
The second issue might be caused by phimosis.
A circumcision can improve this condition, so I recommend you visit a urologist for an examination.

Reply Date: 2009/05/03

More Info

The symptoms you are experiencing, namely the bumps on either side of the urethral opening and the tight foreskin, can be concerning and warrant a thorough evaluation. Let's break down each issue and provide some insights based on medical knowledge.

Urethral Bumps
The "bump-like" structures you described near the urethral opening could be several things. Common possibilities include:
1. Pearly Penile Papules: These are small, harmless bumps that can appear around the glans of the penis. They are normal anatomical variations and do not require treatment.

2. Fordyce Spots: These are small, painless, pale bumps that are sebaceous glands without hair follicles. They are also benign and common.

3. Infection or Inflammation: If the doctor suspected an infection, it could be a condition such as a mild case of balanitis (inflammation of the glans) or a sexually transmitted infection (STI). However, since you mentioned that both you and your wife have only been intimate with each other, the likelihood of an STI may be lower, but it is still possible to have asymptomatic infections.

4. Cysts or Other Lesions: Sometimes, cysts can form in the area, which can appear as bumps.

Tight Foreskin (Phimosis)
The tightness of your foreskin, especially if it causes pain during an erection, is known as phimosis. This condition can be physiological (normal in young boys) or pathological (due to scarring or inflammation). Here are some considerations:
1. Symptoms of Phimosis: The tight foreskin can lead to discomfort during erections, difficulty retracting the foreskin, and sometimes pain during sexual activity. If the foreskin cannot be retracted at all, it may lead to complications such as balanitis or paraphimosis (where the retracted foreskin cannot return to its normal position).

2. Treatment Options: Treatment for phimosis can vary based on severity. Options include:
- Topical Steroid Creams: These can help to soften the foreskin and allow for easier retraction.

- Gentle Stretching Exercises: Gradually stretching the foreskin can sometimes alleviate tightness.

- Circumcision: In more severe cases, surgical removal of the foreskin may be recommended.

Seeking Medical Advice
Given the symptoms you are experiencing, it is advisable to consult a urologist. Urologists specialize in male reproductive health and urinary tract issues, making them well-suited to address both the bumps and the tight foreskin. While dermatologists can also evaluate skin-related issues, the combination of your symptoms suggests that a urologist would be the most appropriate specialist to consult.

Conclusion
In summary, the bumps you are experiencing could be benign anatomical variations or signs of infection, while the tight foreskin may indicate phimosis. Both conditions can be evaluated and treated effectively by a urologist. It is essential to seek medical attention to receive an accurate diagnosis and appropriate treatment plan. Do not hesitate to reach out to a specialist, as they can provide the best guidance tailored to your specific situation.

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