A white spot on the glans that is painful and only appears as a single small dot?
Hello, doctor.
I would like to ask you about the pearly penile papules on my glans.
Many people online say that it is due to phimosis and that it could potentially lead to penile cancer over the years.
However, I have researched and found that pearly papules are benign and do not require treatment.
Recently, I noticed that when I wash and touch the edge of the glans, one of the papules is painful, while the others are not.
Should I consider circumcision? I clean myself daily and do not want to undergo circumcision, as I believe the foreskin protects the glans.
Would applying an ointment resolve the issue? Is it available at a regular pharmacy? Additionally, my erect penis measures 8 cm; is that considered too short? Could a tight foreskin be preventing the corpora cavernosa from fully expanding? I also wonder if my sleeping position, particularly sleeping on my stomach a few days ago, could be related.
If possible, please explain.
Axiang, 10~19 year old female. Ask Date: 2009/12/03
Dr. Xu Weikai reply Urology
The pearly penile papules are not painful and do not require treatment.
If there is pain, it may indicate another issue, and it is important to seek medical attention promptly to avoid delaying diagnosis and treatment.
As for the cause and whether topical ointments can be used for treatment, it cannot be diagnosed without a proper examination.
Additionally, this condition is unrelated to circumcision.
Currently, urologists advocate for preserving the foreskin and minimizing circumcision.
The measurement of penile length can vary based on the method used, often leading to unnecessary concerns.
A physician in Taiwan previously conducted a study on this topic, which can be found online; he used scientific methods to measure the size of Taiwanese men's penises.
This is unrelated to sleeping positions.
Reply Date: 2009/12/03
More Info
Pearly penile papules (PPP) are small, benign bumps that typically appear around the corona of the glans (the head of the penis). They are often mistaken for other conditions, including sexually transmitted infections or other dermatological issues, but it’s important to understand that PPP is a normal anatomical variant and is not associated with any disease or cancer, including penile cancer.
The presence of pain in one of the papules, as you described, is not typical for PPP. Pain can indicate an underlying issue, such as irritation, infection, or inflammation. If you are experiencing pain, it is advisable to consult a healthcare professional for a proper evaluation. They can determine whether the pain is due to the papule itself or if there is another condition that requires treatment.
Regarding your concerns about phimosis (tight foreskin) and whether you need a circumcision, it’s essential to understand that not all cases of tight foreskin necessitate surgical intervention. If you can retract your foreskin without pain, then circumcision may not be necessary. However, if you are experiencing recurrent infections, pain, or difficulty with hygiene due to a tight foreskin, a discussion with a urologist may be warranted.
In terms of treatment options, if the painful papule is indeed causing discomfort, topical treatments may be available, but these should be discussed with a healthcare provider. Over-the-counter options may include hydrocortisone cream to reduce inflammation or antiseptic ointments if there is a concern about infection. However, it is crucial to avoid self-diagnosing and self-treating without professional guidance, as inappropriate treatments could exacerbate the issue.
As for your concerns about the size of your penis and whether it is too short, it is important to note that penis size varies widely among individuals, and what is considered "normal" can differ significantly. An erect penis size of 8 cm (approximately 3.15 inches) is below the average range, but size does not determine sexual function or satisfaction. If you have concerns about your sexual health or function, discussing these with a healthcare provider can provide reassurance and options.
Your sleeping position, such as sleeping on your stomach, is unlikely to have a direct impact on the size of your penis or the ability to achieve an erection. However, if you are experiencing discomfort or pain while sleeping in that position, it may be worth trying different sleeping positions to see if it alleviates any discomfort.
In summary, while pearly penile papules are generally benign and do not require treatment, any painful bumps or changes in your genital area should be evaluated by a healthcare professional. They can provide a proper diagnosis and discuss appropriate treatment options, including whether circumcision is necessary. Additionally, concerns about penis size and sexual health can be addressed in a supportive and informative manner by a qualified healthcare provider. Always prioritize open communication with your doctor to ensure your concerns are addressed comprehensively.
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