What are they?
How did I get it?
Is it normal?
While it can be scary to find a bump on your penis, finding a few can be down right frightening. But for most there may be a simple explanation for these unusual little pin-head sized bumps around the head of the penis. Although sometimes mistaken as genital warts, these tiny bumps in most cases harmless and do not require treatment.
Even though it may be uncomfortable for you to talk to your doctor you should always have anything unusual checked by a doctor just to be sure. In all likelihood your diagnosis will be ‘pearly penile papules’, scientifically referred to as hirsuties papillaris genitalis. Once you know what they are, then they can be either treated or left alone as there are no harmful effects other than some possibility of either sensitivity or discomfort during sex or other activities.
What they are?
Actually, these bumps are very common, especially among men in their twenties and thirties, and regardless of being circumcised or uncircumcised. Throughout your lifetime, it is possible that the bumps will appear and disappear on their own. Even though they are harmless, do not pick at them or try to pop them. You can easily cause some serious damage, even scarring and or infection.
Treatment
Though there is no risk to your health and they are a normal variant of the penis, if they are an issue for you they can be treated. If you are feeling self-conscious or embarrassed by them, the tiny papules can be removed by laser. Before you cringe at the thought of using a laser “down there,” remember that you do not have to do anything at all. Just know that you have an option.
Though the recovery is a bit painful, it is a simple procedure. The laser works quickly and safely to vaporize the bumps. There will be some scabbing and swelling but you should be back to normal within a week or two. Don’t worry, prior to any laser the area is numbed.
Whatever you do, do not ignore unusual lumps and bumps on your penis.
It is always best to have a doctor diagnose your problem. If it turns out to be just ‘pearly penile papules’ you can rest easy. If they become a problem to your social life or self-esteem, they can be removed. Dr Rich for many years, has treated patients with the same concerns; you don’t have to let these little bumps ruin your life!
