Red Bumps on Penis: Causes and How to Treat It

Like virtually every guy out there, chances are, at some point in your life, you've noticed unusual skin changes on various parts of your body. If it happens somewhere like your arms or legs, it might be easy to rule it out as minor irritation due to allergies or a reaction to something outdoors. When it happens on your junk, particularly in the form of red bumps, however, you're likely to be understandably concerned.

Any signs of skin irritation on your penis might lead you to become concerned, whether it's causing discomfort or not. You're likely to be concerned for your own immediate health, not to mention the dreaded act of informing any sexual partners if you may have exposed them to a sexually transmitted infection. Red bumps you've never noticed before may cause even more panic and alarm, even if they prove to be an allergic reaction or a common skin condition such as eczema.

"There are various possible causes of having red bumps on your penis, as penile and preputial skin (aka foreskin) tend to be sensitive areas of the body," says Amanda Mure, M.D,. a urologist in Edinburg, Texas.

While the skin irritation you're dealing with may prove to be nothing (i.e. a reaction that may clear up on its own or with OTC meds), you don't want to mess around, so to speak, when you don't know for sure. Here's what you need to know about unusual red bumps on your penis and when you should pay a visit to your doctor.

So what causes red bumps on your penis?

Some possible culprits are:

Poor hygiene
Body wash/clothing irritation
Sweaty workout clothes
New laundry detergent

Red bumps on your penis may also come from infections or even autoimmune disorders, Dr. Mure says. One example is balanitis, which, according to Cleveland Clinic, is defined as pain and inflammation of the glans, or head, of the penis, typically caused by a yeast infection, or possibly a bacterial or viral infection. Telltale signs include swelling and irritation, and it's more prevalent among uncircumcised men. While it's not contagious, chances are you won't feel like getting intimate with anyone while experiencing these symptoms.

According to Planned Parenthood, various sexually transmitted infections can present with red bumps as well, including genital herpes, genital warts (which may be caused by the human papilloma virus), scabies, chlamydia and syphilis.

How to treat red penis bumps

If you're wondering if most of the above signify a need to see a provider, you'd be right.

"Red bumps along with urinary symptoms (like burning or frequency) or penile discharge warrant a prompt doctor's visit," Dr. Mure says. "Outside of that scenario, home treatment with over-the-counter antifungal or 'jock itch' creams can be used for five to seven. But if a new red area or bumps develop that don't disappear within a week, let your primary doctor or urologist know. While it's less common, a red bump could be penile cancer so it's important to be seen promptly."

The bottom line: If you're experiencing red bumps down there, they're probably causing discomfort and somewhat impacting your quality of life. Don't be afraid to speak up with your healthcare provider to not only nip it in the bud and get to feeling better, but to rule out anything serious as well.

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