What are pearly penile papules? Penile pearly papules are normal skin growths or whiteheads that are small dome-shaped benign growths. They can be pearly white, pink or yellow in color and shaped like a small dome measuring only a few millimeters. Pearly penile papules to varying degrees are found in all men of sexual maturity. Pearly penile papules are often located along the edge of the glans in one or two rows. The appearance of these growths can cause concern for both the patient and his sexual partner, as they can be mistaken for sexually transmitted infections (STIs), such as genital warts. However, pearly penile papules are harmless, non-contagious and not associated with sexually transmitted diseases, but are often seen as a cosmetic problem. What are the characteristics of pearly penile papules? Pearly penile papules are not accompanied by any symptoms other than the appearance of small, dome-shaped pimples on the penis. These entities may appear in adolescence or early adulthood. The number and size of the papules is different in different patients, and variations over time are possible in the same man. Pearly penile papules are not associated with cancer and are usually not itchy or painful. Papules are usually: 1 to 2 millimeters wide; 1 to 4 millimeters in length; Pearly white, yellow or pink in color; With a round shape; Arranged in rows along the edge of the head of the penis Symmetrically located In some cases the papules appear in a single line around the head of the penis, and in other cases there may be a number of rings of papules. Penile pearly papules are estimated to occur in 14 to 48% of men. What effect do pearly penile papules have on sex? Although pearly penile papules are harmless and symptomless, their presence can cause some distress to men who have them. A study of 95 men with pearly penile papules found that 38% of them were bothered by their presence and 17% of them wanted them removed. Men who discover they have pearly penile papules may feel anxious, afraid, ashamed, or worried that they have a sexually transmitted infection. This common misconception can lead to relationship problems between partners. Pearly penile papules do not functionally affect the penis or sex. In theory, they should not affect sexual experiences in any way. They are not contagious and have nothing to do with sexually transmitted infections. Although penile pearly papules do not physically affect sex, men who have them (as well as their partners) may experience discomfort associated with their presence, which can lead to problems with intimacy, trust and reduced quality of life. . References: 1. Honigman AD, Dubin DP, Chu J, Lin MJ. Management of pearly penile papules:a review of the literature 2. Aldahan AS, Brah TK, Nouri K. Diagnosis and management of pearly penile papules 3. The Australasian College of Dermatologists. Pearly penile papules 4. Verywell Health. What Are Pearly Penile Papules?