What are These Bumps on My Penis and How Can I Get Rid of Them?

Published: February 14, 2017
Dear TeenHealthFX,
I am 15 years old and I have these very small "bumps" on my penis skin which I have often worried about. I looked it up a few times and they seem to be "Fordyce Spots". I read online that they are very common and not to worry about but sometimes I still do. Do you know if there is anyway to get rid of them? Or any additional information?
Signed: What are These Bumps on My Penis and How Can I Get Rid of Them?

Dear What are These Bumps on My Penis and How Can I Get Rid of Them?,

If you have never had sex the bumps on your penis could be pimples, skin cysts, ingrown hairs, Fordyce spots, or pearly penile papules. These are all common conditions and nothing to worry about. While some people might feel the urge to pop bumps in order to get rid of them, please do not do this as this could cause infection. It is also important not to use any acne medication, wart remover or any other skin creams on the bumps in an attempt to get rid of them. If you want to know exactly what these bumps are, and if there is anything that can be done about them, it is best to meet with your doctor.

If you are having sex, or have had sex in the past, then it is possible that the bumps could be STDs (sexually transmitted diseases). If you are, or have been, sexually active, TeenHealthFX recommends that you meet with a doctor so you can be properly diagnosed and treated. Even if bumps on the penis that are a symptom of an STD are not causing you any pain or discomfort, it is still problematic as untreated STDs could put your health (and the health of any future sexual partners) at risk.   

If you don't have a doctor and live in northern New Jersey, you can call the Adolescent/Young Adult Center for Health at 973-971-5199 for an appointment with an adolescent medicine specialist or contact your local teen health center or Planned Parenthood. You can also contact your insurance company for a list of in-network providers.

Signed: TeenHealthFX

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