Penis Bumps, Lumps and Lesions - Why the "Wait and See" Approach is Risky
The average male is intimately familiar with the topography of his penis, as this particular tool tends to receive a good deal of attention. While this hyper-vigilance sometimes leads men to panic over minor abrasions - or even perfectly normal variations in skin tone or texture - it is a good idea to pay attention to changes in the skin that might indicate a problem. Penis bumps, lumps, lesions or other marks that appear either suddenly or gradually should not be ignored, as they may be a sign of a disease that requires medical attention. Some common causes of penis bumps are discussed here, as well as some suggestions for penis care and disease prevention.
1. Fordyce spots - A large percentage of men have a number of skin-colored or pale bumps that dot the penile skin, and many men are extremely concerned about their appearance. While only a trained medical professional can tell for sure, a scattering of bumps like this may be nothing more than Fordyce spots, or enlarged follicles. These are common, natural and harmless, and in most cases, they are much more noticeable to the owner of the penis than to any potential partner.
2. Penis warts - Warts in the private area are typically caused by a virus known as HPV - human papillomavirus. This is the same microbe that is responsible for warts on other parts of the body, as well as skin tags and similar fleshy growths. HPV warts on the penis are caused by a specific strain of the virus, and they are highly transmittable. Because the presence of HPV has been linked to cancer, particularly in women, men who have warts should take care not to exposure their partner. The virus itself typically clears up on its own, although this can take months or even years.
3. Herpes - Open sores or blisters on the head or shaft of the penis may be an indication of herpes, an STD that is highly contagious and, at present, incurable. Medications are necessary to control herpes outbreaks, but even when there are no sores present, the disease can be transmitted to a partner.
4. Cancer - Bumps or sores that do not heal, or that grow or change in appearance, can be an indication of cancer. Any unusual skin growths should be evaluated by a doctor as soon as possible after they are discovered, since early treatment is key to a successful cure.
All-around Care and Maintenance
While there are no guarantees or sure-fire tricks when it comes to avoiding unpleasant penis problems, men can take proactive measures in order to keep the member in top form. Using barrier protection such as a condom for each and every encounter is the first line of defense, helping to protect against diseases such as HPV and herpes.
Washing carefully every day, and also after any intimate contact, should also be part of a man’s routine, and guys can take an extra step in preventing STDs by urinating right after oral contact or intercourse - this flushes out the urethra and may eliminate harmful microbes before they can take hold.
Adding a top-drawer penis health creme (health professionals recommend Man 1 Man Oil) that is fortified with antibacterial vitamin A, as well as disease-fighting vitamins C and D, can provide an additional layer of defense against disease. High-quality moisturizers such as Shea butter, added to a nourishing health creme, improves the tone and texture of the skin and boosts its resistance to disease and environmental hazards. Applying a creme like this directly after a bath or shower, while the skin is warm and absorbent, is an excellent way to guard against potential penis problems.
