Mouldy member
Question
My penis is developing some sort of mould on it, especially round the head and I don't know what to do. To add to that I've got small, whitish spots on my penis too. What's wrong with me?
Answer
Unfortunately, it's impossible to diagnose you over the internet but you can speak to a nurse via the fpa Helpline on 0845 310 1334, or NHS Direct on 0845 46 47 about this.
The mould you describe could be smegma. The fpa 4Boys leaflet states if you don't wash under the foreskin, a yellowish-white creamy substance called smegma builds up. This is normal but to keep clean and avoid it smelling, you should wash under the foreskin every day.
If you are sexually active and have noticed any changes on the inside of your foreskin or any other part of your genitals, it would be a good idea to get yourself checked out for any possible infections
There are many different types of sexually transmitted infections (STIs) and they can be spread in different ways, not just through penetrative sex. However, there are also some infections that are not necessarily sexually transmitted at all.
It is not uncommon to have harmless spots/lumps on the genitals and although people who have an infection sometimes get symptoms to show that something is wrong, often they don't. Where there are symptoms, these may include unusual discharge from the penis, pain or burning sensation when passing urine and rashes, itching or tingling around the genitals or anus.
If you're worried that you may have an infection, you can get advice and testing at a genito-urinary medicine (GUM) clinic. Services are located attached to or within local hospitals, and are usually separate, discreet departments. GUM consultations are free and confidential, which means no one will be told about your visit, unless you want them to be.
It's common to feel nervous at the thought of being tested for an infection, but it's important to remember that most infections are easily treatable. Delaying treatment could mean that an infection gets worse and other problems could occur.
To reduce the risk of getting a sexually transmitted infection in the future, always use a condom during sex. Dental dams (small squares of latex) can also be used as a barrier during sex involving contact between the mouth and the vagina, or the mouth and the anus.
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