Experiencing Pearly Penile Papules

The sight of anything unusual on the penis can be downright unsettling, so when pearly penile papules appear, it’s easy enough for most men to start panicking. Fortunately, pearly penile papules do not signify a life-threatening condition, nor are they even a symptom of STDs.

What Pearly Penile Papules Look Like

Pearly penile papules are small bumps that typically appear along the rim of the head of the penis. They are usually flesh-colored and smooth, and often form in rows.

The Effects of Pearly Penile Papules

From a health-related perspective, pearly penile papules are completely benign. Some men, however, may experience discomfort or unwanted sensitivity during sex when pearly penile papules are present. Often, the mental effects of pearly penile papules overshadow the physical, as the appearance of bumps on the penis can make many men feel self-conscious. Similarly, pearly penile papules can be a point of concern for females who aren’t familiar with what they are, and in this regard, these otherwise harmless bumps could end up negatively impacting one’s sex life.

Treating Pearly Penile Papules

Though pearly penile papules don’t have to be treated because of health-related implications, many men understandably want to get rid of them. An outpatient laser procedure is usually the recommended course of action for eliminating pearly penile papules. The process is safe and actually sounds much scarier than it is: Most patients report little or no discomfort during the procedure as well as the recovery period afterward.

How to Tell if it’s Pearly Penile Papules or Herpes

Penile sores are a common herpes symptom, and many men tend to mistake pearly penile papules for genital herpes or warts. As herpes sores can be difficult to identify, it’s best to undergo STD testing when herpes infection is a possibility. Anyone who engages in unprotected intercourse is at risk for contracting genital herpes. In fact, even with the use of condoms, it’s still possible to come away infected with herpes. Testing is the best way to determine if the spots on one’s penis are byproducts of an STD versus pearly penile papules.