What are pearly penile papules? Whos more likely to get these finger-like growths and whether you need to worry
Got pearls in your pants? You aren’t alone.Around the world, an estimated 14% to 48% of men will develop small, whitish bumps around the head of their penis at some point in their lives.They’re called pearly penile papules — and while their name may sound rather elegant, the sight of these growths often leaves men feeling less than glamorous.One frightened fellow, Steven Mogot, spent 30 years feeling “ashamed” of his “unsightly” schlong, convinced he had genital warts and avoiding sexual intimacy for fear of what his partners might think.But experts say there’s no need to panic — or spend decades pumping the brakes on your bedroom life.Here’s everything you need to know about pearly penile papules, including who’s most likely to develop the bumps and how to get rid of them.Pearly penile papules are small, rounded or sometimes “finger-like” growths made up of fibrous tissue and blood vessels, according to the Cleveland Clinic.The bumps typically appear in rows around the head of the penis, often looking like tiny white spots or pearls.
They can also be yellow or pink and are usually 1 to 3 millimeters wide and up to 4 millimeters long — about the size of a grain of rice.Doctors aren’t sure, but they have nothing to do with poor hygiene and aren’t a sexually transmitted infection, despite their appearance.“If you aren’t sure, go see a doctor,” Dr.Joshua Gonzalez, a urologist and sexual health expert, said in a TikTok about the condition.
“They are easily clinically identifiable.”Anyone can develop them, but they’re more common among Black men and those who have foreskin.They’re also most commonly noticed during young adulthood.The short answer: No.
The bumps are benign, harmless and typically don’t cause any other symptoms.But while the growths pose no physical threat, they can take a psychological toll.Studies show that more than one-third of men with pearly penile papules have experienced worry, anxiety or distress...