Normal or not?
Question
I've noticed lots of tiny lumps or bubbles around the ring-shaped area on the head of my penis. The thing is, I'm still a virgin so this problem is bothering me a lot. Can you tell me what it is?
Answer
It's not uncommon to have harmless spots or lumps on the genitals. Harmless small lumps around the ring-shaped area of the penis are called pearly penile papules and these may be what you are describing.
If you're worried about the lumps or they are causing you discomfort, you may want to get them checked out by a professional to make sure that you don't have an infection.
You've said you're a virgin but it's unclear if you have had close physical contact of any kind. There are many different types of sexually transmitted infections (STIs) and they can be spread in different ways, not just through penetrative sex. There are also some infections that are not necessarily sexually transmitted at all.
People who have an infection sometimes get symptoms to show that something is wrong. These can include:
- Unusual discharge from the penis;
- Pain or burning sensation when passing urine;
- Rashes, itching or tingling around the genitals or anus.
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.
If you're worried you might have an infection you can get free, confidential advice and testing at a genito-urinary medicine (GUM) clinic.
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