Yellow Semen and White Bumps: Urology Insights for Young Men

Yellow semen and white unknown protruding objects?

Hello doctor! I am 18 years old and have not engaged in sexual intercourse.
After masturbating, I often notice that my semen is yellow instead of the commonly mentioned white color.
What could be the reason for this? Additionally, I have 4 to 5 small white bumps located at the junction of my glans and foreskin.
They are small but raised, and they are not on the glans itself but on the skin below it.
What could be the reason for this? Please help clarify these concerns! Thank you!

A-Jiang, 10~19 year old female. Ask Date: 2013/04/02

Dr. Li Yilun reply Urology

If the semen appears thicker and has a yellowish tint, and if there are any discomforts, it is advisable to visit a medical facility for semen analysis.
Common skin protrusions or small bumps may be caused by a condition known as sebaceous hyperplasia, which presents as skin-colored or light brown, round, multiple, small white nodules resembling tiny beads, about the size of a pinhead.
These are primarily due to cystic retention of keratin in the upper dermis; they may also be influenced by androgens during puberty, leading to sebaceous gland hyperplasia or epidermal pigment deposition.
However, sebaceous hyperplasia appears yellowish, while the small bumps are white, and typically, no treatment is necessary for these small bumps.
Some of these bumps may occur on the penis or right at the papillae.

Additionally, there are small papules known as pearly penile papules.
This condition does not affect your health or physiological function, and if asymptomatic, no treatment is required.
Approximately 10% of males may develop pearly penile papules.
These small papules are arranged in rows (circumferentially) along the coronal sulcus of the penis, ranging from the size of a pinhead to that of millet, and are skin-colored or light pink.
They cannot be washed or scraped off, are painless and itch-free, and represent a benign skin condition.
The exact cause remains unclear; however, they do not impact the patient's overall health, urinary function, or sexual function, and they are not contagious.

Pearly penile papules can be pink, white, yellow, and transparent forms are less common.
They typically measure 1-2 mm in width and 1-4 mm in length, appearing as rounded papules arranged in single or double rows along the coronal sulcus of the penis.
Usually asymptomatic, most patients discover them incidentally.
However, if there are any concerns, it is recommended to consult a dermatologist or urologist, as a physician often needs to perform a visual examination, palpation, and take a medical history to confirm the diagnosis.

Reply Date: 2013/04/02

More Info

Hello! Thank you for your questions. It's great that you're seeking information about your health, especially regarding concerns that can be quite sensitive. Let's break down your inquiries regarding yellow semen and the white bumps you mentioned.

Yellow Semen
The color of semen can vary for several reasons, and yellow semen is not uncommon. Here are some potential explanations:
1. Dehydration: If you are not drinking enough fluids, your body may produce more concentrated semen, which can appear yellowish. Ensuring adequate hydration can help maintain the normal color of your semen.

2. Diet: Certain foods, particularly those high in sulfur (like garlic and onions), can affect the color of your semen. Additionally, foods rich in carotenoids, such as carrots, can also lead to a yellow tint.

3. Infection: While less common, a yellowish tint can sometimes indicate an infection, particularly if accompanied by other symptoms like pain, discomfort, or unusual discharge. However, since you mentioned you have not engaged in sexual activity, the likelihood of a sexually transmitted infection (STI) is lower.

4. Semen Composition: The presence of certain substances in the semen, such as prostatic fluid, can also influence its color. The prostate gland contributes to the fluid that makes up semen, and variations in its secretions can lead to changes in color.

White Bumps on the Penis
The small white bumps you described at the junction of the glans (the head of the penis) and the foreskin are likely to be one of the following:
1. Pearly Penile Papules: These are small, harmless bumps that can appear around the corona of the glans. They are a normal anatomical variant and are not a sign of any disease or infection.

2. Fordyce Spots: These are small, painless, pale bumps that can appear on the shaft of the penis or the scrotum. They are sebaceous glands that are not associated with any health issues.

3. Folliculitis: This is an inflammation of the hair follicles that can cause small, red, or white bumps. It can occur due to irritation or infection.

4. Other Conditions: If the bumps are painful, itchy, or changing in appearance, it would be wise to consult a healthcare provider for a proper diagnosis.

Recommendations
1. Hydration and Diet: Ensure you are drinking enough water and maintaining a balanced diet. This can help with the color of your semen.

2. Monitor Symptoms: Keep an eye on any changes in your symptoms. If you notice pain, swelling, or any unusual discharge, it would be prudent to seek medical attention.

3. Consult a Urologist: If you are concerned about the yellow color of your semen or the white bumps, consider scheduling an appointment with a urologist. They can provide a thorough examination and address any concerns you may have.

4. Avoid Self-Diagnosis: While it’s good to seek information, avoid jumping to conclusions based on online searches. A healthcare professional can provide accurate diagnoses and treatment options.

In conclusion, while yellow semen and white bumps can be concerning, they are often benign and related to non-infectious causes. However, if you have any doubts or if symptoms persist, don't hesitate to reach out to a healthcare professional for personalized advice. Your health is important, and getting the right information is key to maintaining it. Thank you for your questions, and I wish you all the best in your health journey!

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