Human genitalia come in all shapes and sizes. Some genital features may be larger, smaller, different in shape, and have different colors and textures.
One concern we hear from our clients is about a fairly common condition called pearly penile papule (PPP).
But what is it? Should you be concerned if you have them?
Keep reading to find out.
Don’t leave your sexual health to chance. Get tested for STDs with Better2Know today.
What are pearly penile papules?
Pearly penile papules (PPP), sometimes called Tyson glands or crown follicles, are fleshy or white growths on a man’s penis that are often small and dome-shaped, looking a bit like whiteheads or skin tags. They usually appear around the crown of the penis – the rim of the penis at the bottom of the head. These growths are usually completely benign.
It is not currently known what causes PPP. They may be caused by normal anatomical differentiation, possibly linked to genetic factors or hormonal changes during puberty. They may be remnants of embryonic human development, meaning they may have had a previous evolutionary function but now serve no purpose.
What is an STD?
A sexually transmitted infection is an infection that is spread between people during sexual activity – usually vaginal, anal and oral sex, or when sex toys are shared. Bacteria, viruses and parasites can cause STDs. Common STDs include:
It is important to know that most STDs do not cause symptoms. It is common for someone to have an infection for months or years and not know it.
Are pearly penile papules an STD?
PPP is not an STD, so if you have this condition, there is no need to worry. These are benign growths that are not caused by any infection. They can be treated with cosmetic surgery, but most people live quite comfortably with the condition.
However, there are some infections that can look like PPP…
What STDs can look like pearly penile papules?
Some conditions can cause skin blemishes that could be mistaken for PPP. If any of these conditions match your situation more than the description of PPP above, you may want to consider an STD test.
HPV
THE Human Papillomavirus (HPV) is the most common STD in the world. The immune system clears most HPV infections, but some can remain and cause skin spots called genital warts.
Genital warts are flesh-colored bumps that can appear anywhere in the genital area. They are often wrinkled nodules shaped like a cauliflower head.
Genital warts are mostly harmless and tend to go away on their own within six months to two years after the initial infection. In very rare cases, they may grow large enough to require surgery.
Get tested for HPV with Better2Know’s home test kit.
Herpes
Genital Herpes It is most often caused by the herpes simplex virus type 2 (HSV-2), which you can catch during sexual activity.
A genital herpes infection can cause blisters to appear near the initial site of infection. These blisters are often filled with a clear fluid. The blisters eventually burst, forming sores that peel and heal.
Blisters that form during a herpes infection can be mistaken for PPP.
Get tested for herpes with Better2Know’s home test kit.
Syphilis
Syphilis it is a bacterial infection. In the early stages of the infection, a lump may form at the site of the infection – most commonly on the genitals. This chancre is often round, smooth and firm with a red or reddish brown color. Pins are painless and do not itch.
Get tested for syphilis with Better2Know’s Home Test Kit.
Final thoughts
It’s understandable to be concerned about new symptoms, especially with a new mole on your genitals. But before you panic, it’s best to get tested for any sexually transmitted infections. In the unlikely event that you test positive, you can take specific steps to protect your sexual health and the health of your current and future partners.
To get screened for all the infections listed above, try Better2Know’s Blemish Screen. Click the button below to learn more.
Don’t let an infection affect your health. Get tested today with Better2Know.
