There are small white bumps on the foreskin

Small white bumps on the foreskin may be benign conditions such as pearly penile papules or ectopic sebaceous glands, and usually do not require special treatment.

1. Pearly penile papules

It is more common in post-pubertal males and manifests as small pearly white papules arranged in rows on the coronal edge of the foreskin, with a diameter of about 1-3 mm, a hard texture, and no pain or itching. Its formation may be related to local stimulation or abnormal physiological development. It generally does not affect physiological functions and usually does not require treatment. If you have aesthetic needs, consider laser or cryo removal.

2. Ectopia of sebaceous glands

Due to the abnormal distribution of sebaceous glands on the mucosal surface, they appear as light yellow or milky white flat pimples, mostly distributed on the inner plate of the foreskin or the glans. It is a normal physiological variation and is not contagious and has no symptoms. Just keep the area clean and dry. If necessary, it can be treated with electrocautery.

3. Genital warts

Caused by human papillomavirus infection, it may initially appear as small white cauliflower-like protrusions with a soft texture that may gradually increase in size. The diagnosis needs to be confirmed by acetic acid white test or pathological examination. Treatment methods include topical medications such as imiquimod cream and podophyllotoxin tincture, or physical treatments such as laser and cryotherapy.

4. Accumulation of smegma

Due to insufficient cleaning, the secretions from the inner plate of the foreskin mix with the exfoliated epidermis to form white particles, often accompanied by a slight odor. Washing the inside of the foreskin with warm water every day can improve it. In severe cases, you can use saline to rinse it. If it occurs repeatedly, the possibility of excessive foreskin should be ruled out.

5. Fungal infection

Candida infection may appear as a white film with red papules, accompanied by itching and burning. Fungal microscopy is required to confirm the diagnosis, and antifungal drugs such as clotrimazole cream and miconazole nitrate ointment can be used for treatment. In severe cases, oral fluconazole capsules are required.

It is recommended to wash the vulva with warm water every day, choose breathable cotton underwear and change it frequently. Avoid using harsh lotions or over-cleaning. If there is redness, swelling, pain, increased secretions, or continued enlargement of the pimple, you should go to a dermatology or urology department in time. Be careful not to squeeze or pick the pimple on your own to avoid secondary infection. People with excessive foreskin may consider circumcision after evaluation by a doctor.