What causes small bumps on a male's genitalia?

Aug 20, 2025 Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Liu Wenmin
Introduction
In general, the main causes of small bumps on the male genitalia include ectopic hyperplasia of sebaceous glands, pearly penile papules, balanoposthitis, condyloma acuminata, and genital herpes. If the bumps are accompanied by symptoms such as itching, pain, or an increase in number, it is recommended to seek timely medical consultation and treatment at a正规 hospital. In daily life, it is important to maintain cleanliness and dryness of the genital area and change underwear regularly.

Generally, the main causes of small bumps on male genitalia include ectopic hyperplasia of sebaceous glands, pearly penile papules, balanoposthitis, genital warts, and genital herpes. If the bumps are accompanied by symptoms such as itching, pain, or an increase in number, it is recommended to seek timely medical consultation and treatment at a正规 hospital. Detailed explanations are as follows:

1. Ectopic Hyperplasia of Sebaceous Glands

Sebaceous glands may abnormally proliferate on the genital area, forming small, pale yellow bumps the size of a pinhead. This is a benign condition. Maintaining local dryness and cleanliness and avoiding squeezing usually prevents any impact on health.

2. Pearly Penile Papules

This is a normal physiological phenomenon, often related to local irritation or physiological developmental variation. These appear as tiny bumps along the corona of the penis and typically cause no discomfort. No specific treatment is required; maintaining local hygiene and avoiding excessive friction in daily life is sufficient.

3. Balanoposthitis

Phimosis and poor hygiene can easily lead to bacterial or fungal infections, causing inflammation of the foreskin and glans, which may manifest as redness, swelling, and small bumps. For bacterial infections, medications such as mupirocin ointment, fusidic acid cream, or cefixime capsules may be used under a doctor's guidance. For fungal infections, clotrimazole cream, miconazole cream, or fluconazole capsules may be used. Physical treatments such as freezing or laser therapy are also options.

4. Genital Warts

Caused by human papillomavirus (HPV) infection, these bumps initially appear as small, light red granules and gradually increase in size, becoming papillary or cauliflower-like. Treatments include podophyllotoxin tincture, imiquimod cream, or interferon gel under a doctor's guidance, or physical treatments such as freezing or laser therapy.

5. Genital Herpes

Caused by herpes simplex virus infection, early symptoms include clusters of small blisters resembling bumps, often accompanied by pain and itching. Antiviral medications such as acyclovir cream, valacyclovir tablets, or famciclovir capsules may be used under medical guidance to suppress viral replication and alleviate symptoms.

In daily life, it is important to maintain cleanliness and dryness of the genital area, change underwear frequently, avoid unclean sexual activity, and take proper precautions. If phimosis is present, surgical treatment may be considered. Seek medical attention promptly for any abnormalities and avoid self-medication to prevent delaying treatment.

Related Articles

View All