Pearly Penile Papules or STD?

"Why no, it's not an STD. Thank you very much."

This is not something you want to hear or have to say, but let's face it; we all have embarrassing personal issues from time to time.

Pearly penile papules, also known as hirsuties coronae glandis or PPP, are small dome-like bumps on the ridge of the head of the penis. Each bump is on average 1mm to 3mm in diameter and is usually pearly white or flesh colored. It is often mistaken as some sort of STD and sends the patient in search of a quick fix.

Unfortunately, most home remedies do not seem to work long-term, and some can even be dangerous. There are a number of options that you can discuss with your physician ranging from freezing with liquid nitrogen to laser ablation to surgery.

The bumps are more noticeable when the penis is erect and can potentially cause more discomfort during erection and sex. At other times, however, the bumps should not cause pain. That said, when a partner sees these lesions for the first time, it can throw a huge wrench in not just the situation, but also the relationship as a whole.

Doing proper research and discussing your options fully with your doctor can help reduce the chances that something that is essentially a skin rash will end a relationship. But for aesthetic reasons alone, you may choose to seek treatment for this condition. These bumps can also cause stress and anxiety until they are properly diagnosed. Some men mistake them for sexually transmitted diseases or even cancer.

Pearly penile papules can have a growth cycle of a few months to a few years. Once they are done growing, it is possible for them to go away on their own, but this is unlikely. They are more likely to diminish slightly but will most likely be there until removed by a doctor.

Statistics aren't abundant, but this issue could appear in as much as 48% of the male population. While the problem seems to be more prevalent with uncircumcised penises - circumcision has not shown to be a cure either - no substantial studies have found to indicate that any one man is more likely to have this problem than other men.

Despite various studies, little is known about the cause of pearly penile papules. This makes treatment slightly more difficult and prevention nearly impossible.

Regardless of whether you have the papules removed or not, there is no known risk of death or major impairment due to the bumps. However, it is still advisable to see a health professional to determine that your condition is, in fact, pearly penile papules.