Like virtually all men, chances are that at some point in your life, you have noticed unusual skin changes on various parts of your body. If it’s happening somewhere like your arms or legs, it can be easy to rule it out as a minor irritation due to allergies or a reaction to something outside. When it happens on your junkespecially in the form of red bumps, however, you are likely to be understandably worried.

Any sign of skin irritation on your penis could cause you to worry whether it causes discomfort or not. You are likely to be worried about your own immediate health, not to mention the dreaded act of telling your sexual partners if you have exposed them to a sexually transmitted infection. Red bumps you’ve never noticed before can cause even more panic and worry, even if they turn out to be an allergic reaction or a common skin condition such as eczema.

“There are various possible causes for having red bumps on your penis, as the skin of the penis and the foreskin (or foreskin) tend to be sensitive areas of the body,” says Amanda Mure, MD. a urologist in Edinburgh, Texas.

Although the skin irritation you are dealing with may turn out to be nothing (i.e. a reaction that may go away on its own or with over-the-counter medications), you will not don’t want to bother, so to speak, when you don’t know for sure. Here’s what you need to know about unusual red bumps on your penis and when you should visit your doctor.

So what causes red bumps on your penis?

Some possible culprits are:

• poor hygiene
• Body wash/clothing irritation
• sweaty workout clothes
• New laundry detergent

Red bumps on your penis can also stem from infections or even autoimmune disorders, Dr. Mure says. An example is balanitis, which, according to the Cleveland Clinic, is defined as pain and inflammation of the glans, or head, of the penis, usually caused by a yeast infection, or possibly a bacterial or viral infection. Telltale signs include swelling and irritation, and they’re more common in uncircumcised men. Although it’s not contagious, chances are you don’t want to be intimate with anyone while you’re experiencing these symptoms.

According to Planned Parenthoodvarious sexually transmitted infections can also present with red bumps, including genital herpes, genital warts (which can be caused by the human papillomavirus), scabies, chlamydia, and syphilis.

How to Treat Red Penis Bumps

If you’re wondering if most of the above points to a need to consult with a provider, you’re right.

“Red bumps along with urinary symptoms (like burning or frequency) or penile discharge warrant a quick visit to the doctor,” says Dr. Mure. “Outside of this scenario, home treatment with over-the-counter antifungal or anti-itch creams can be used for five to seven years. But if a new red area or bumps develop and don’t go away within a week, let your GP or urologist know. Although less common, a red bump could be penile cancer, so it’s important to be seen early.

The bottom line: If you experience red bumps there, they are likely causing discomfort and affecting your quality of life somewhat. Don’t be afraid to talk it over with your health care provider to not only nip it in the bud and feel better, but also to rule out any serious issues.

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