Blisters or balls on the penis: 5 causes (and what to do)

The appearance of small blisters on the penis is most often a sign of an allergy to the tissue or sweat, for example, however, when the blisters appear accompanied by other symptoms, such as pain and discomfort in the genital region, it can be a sign of a skin disease or of sexually transmitted infection.

Therefore, when the appearance of bubbles on the penis is noticed, the best option is for the man to go to the urologist so that the bubbles can be evaluated, as well as other symptoms, and so that tests can be carried out, if necessary, and initiated. appropriate treatment.

Bubbles on the penis can appear regardless of age, however the appearance of these bubbles is more common in sexually active men, as they are at greater risk of acquiring a sexually transmitted infection and are exposed to more products that can cause allergies, such as lubricants, for example.

Main causes of blisters on the penis

The main causes of blisters or lumps on the penis are:

1. Tyson’s Glands/ Pearly Papule

Tyson’s glands are small glands present in the glans and are responsible for producing lubricating liquid that facilitates penetration during sexual intercourse. In some men, these glands are more evident, being similar to small balls and are now called pearly papules.

What to do: The appearance of pearly papules is harmless and no treatment is necessary. However, these papules can grow and cause aesthetic discomfort and, in these cases, the urologist may recommend treatments to remove the glands and thus resolve the situation. Understand how pearly papules are treated.

2. Herpes genital

Genital herpes is a sexually transmitted infection (STI) caused by the Herpes simplex virus and which leads to the appearance of blisters in the genital region approximately 10 to 15 days after unprotected sexual intercourse. In addition to the appearance of blisters, it is also possible to notice burning, itching, pain and discomfort in the genital region. Know how to identify the symptoms of genital herpes.

What to do: In the case of genital herpes, the urologist must examine it and may request additional tests to confirm the presence of this virus. Treatment generally involves the use of antiviral medications, as this makes it possible to reduce the virus replication rate, the frequency of symptoms and the risk of transmission.

Genital herpes is a sexually transmitted infection, that is, it is transmitted through sexual intercourse without a condom through contact with the liquid released by blisters present in the genital region of a person infected with the virus. Therefore, the best way to prevent infection with the Herpes virus is by using a condom during sexual intercourse.

3. Lichen sclerosus and atrophic

Lichen sclerosus and atrophicus, or simply lichen sclerosus, is a chronic dermatosis characterized by changes in the genital region, normally the first change being the appearance of blisters. Although this change is more common in postmenopausal women, it can also appear in men.

In addition to blisters appearing, whitish lesions, itching, local irritation, peeling and discoloration of the region may also appear. The cause of lichen sclerosus and atrophicus is not yet well established, however it is believed that it may be related to genetic and immunological factors.

What to do: Treatment for lichen sclerosus and atrophicus must be recommended by a dermatologist or urologist and in most cases the use of ointments containing corticosteroids is indicated, in addition to antihistamine medications, with the aim of relieving the signs and symptoms presented.

4. Molluscum contagiosum

Molluscum contagiosum is an infectious skin disease caused by a virus that causes blisters to appear on any part of the body, including the genital region. This disease is more common in children, but it can also appear in adults who have a weakened immune system. See more about molluscum contagiosum.

What to do: The best option in these cases is to seek guidance from a dermatologist or urologist so that treatment can begin and there is a greater chance of a cure, and the use of ointments, cryotherapy or laser treatment may be recommended depending on the severity of the disease, symptoms and conditions. of the patient.

5. Allergy

The presence of balls on the penis can also be a sign of allergies, in addition to being itchy in the area, pain when urinating, discomfort and the appearance of small red dots, for example. The allergy can happen due to sweat, clothing fabric, personal hygiene products such as soaps, lubricants or be triggered by condom material.

What to do: The best thing to do in case of allergies is to identify the triggering factor and avoid it as much as possible. Furthermore, it is interesting to go to the urologist so that the allergy symptoms can be identified and a more suitable antihistamine can be recommended.