Red Spots on the Glans: Causes and Concerns in Urology

Red spots on the glans?

Hello doctor, I had sexual intercourse twice and masturbated once in the past two days.
After the second time, I didn't take a shower immediately and only washed my glans the next day.
I noticed a lot of red spots on the glans and the inner foreskin, which are not raised, do not hurt, and there is no discomfort when urinating.
Could this be due to insufficient hygiene leading to inflammatory rashes, or could I have contracted a sexually transmitted infection? The two women were not the same person, and neither of them washed their intimate areas beforehand.

A-Hsun, 30~39 year old female. Ask Date: 2015/11/18

Dr. Li Yilun reply Urology

Symptoms that are not clearly defined cannot be assessed based solely on your brief description; a thorough medical history and consultation are necessary.
If you have any doubts, it is advisable to seek evaluation and examination from a qualified physician.
Doctors often require a detailed medical history, physical examination, and diagnostic tests to establish a diagnosis and treatment plan.
It is recommended to consult a nearby urologist for examination and treatment.

Whenever there is sexual activity, there is always a risk of sexually transmitted infections (STIs).
Reducing the number of sexual partners and engaging in less complex sexual behaviors can decrease the likelihood of contracting infections.
The more sexual encounters one has, the higher the risk of STI transmission, and prevention is always better than treatment.

Reply Date: 2015/11/18

More Info

Red spots on the glans can be concerning, especially after recent sexual activity. Based on your description, it seems that you have noticed multiple red spots on the glans and inner foreskin, which are not raised, painful, or associated with any urinary discomfort. This presentation could be due to several factors, including irritation from insufficient cleaning, friction during sexual activity, or even a mild inflammatory response.

1. Hygiene and Irritation: It's possible that the red spots are a result of irritation due to inadequate cleaning after sexual activity. The genital area is sensitive, and any residual bodily fluids, including sweat and secretions, can lead to irritation or inflammation. This is particularly true if there was friction during intercourse or masturbation. The skin in this area can become red and irritated if not properly cleaned, leading to what might appear as red spots.

2. Infection Concerns: While your symptoms do not strongly suggest a sexually transmitted infection (STI), it is still a possibility, especially given that you engaged with two different partners. Common STIs, such as herpes or candidiasis (yeast infection), can present with similar symptoms. However, these typically come with additional symptoms such as pain, itching, or discharge. Since you mentioned that there is no pain or discomfort during urination, this is a positive sign, but it does not completely rule out an infection.

3. Other Causes: Other potential causes of red spots on the glans include:
- Allergic Reactions: Sometimes, reactions to soaps, lotions, or even latex from condoms can cause irritation and redness.

- Pearly Penile Papules: These are small, harmless bumps that can appear on the glans and are often mistaken for something concerning.

- Folliculitis: Inflammation of hair follicles can also lead to red spots, especially if there has been friction or irritation.

Recommendations:
- Hygiene: Ensure that you maintain good hygiene by washing the genital area thoroughly with mild soap and water, especially after sexual activity. This can help prevent irritation and potential infections.

- Observation: Monitor the red spots over the next few days. If they begin to change in appearance, become painful, or if you develop any additional symptoms (such as discharge, itching, or fever), it would be wise to consult a healthcare provider.

- Medical Consultation: If the red spots persist for more than a week or worsen, it is advisable to see a urologist or dermatologist. They can perform a physical examination and, if necessary, run tests to rule out infections or other conditions.

Conclusion:
While the red spots you are experiencing could be due to irritation from insufficient cleaning, it is important to remain vigilant. If you have any concerns about STIs or if the symptoms change, seeking medical advice is the best course of action. Early intervention can help address any potential issues and provide peace of mind.

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