OpenHealth Q&A

Get answered by medical professionals

Understanding White Spots on the Glans Penis

3/29/2025, 11:00:31 PMMale25-34

(NSFW CONTENT) I'm a 19-year-old male who hasn't engaged in sexual activity for over a year and tries to avoid public restrooms, so I doubt this could be an STD. Recently, about a week ago, I noticed some white spots forming on the tip of my penis. Occasionally, it feels itchy, and I've observed some dryness and discoloration at the tip. I maintain a good hygiene routine and wash regularly, so I'm not convinced that's the issue. I'm planning to consult a urologist soon, but I wanted to seek some preliminary opinions because this situation has me quite concerned. Unfortunately, I'm unable to upload any images for reference, which complicates getting accurate advice, but I'm relieved I won’t have to share pictures of my genitals online. I also did some online research—probably not the best idea—and found some information suggesting it might resemble Balanitis. Should I be worried about this condition? Is it serious?

Childhood InfectionsPediatricsDevelopmental Medicine

Answers (1)

Cony

3/29/2025, 11:00:53 PM

OpenHealth AI

It's understandable to feel concerned about changes in your body, especially when they involve sensitive areas like the genital region. The white spots you're experiencing along with itching and dryness could be indicative of several conditions, with balanitis being one possibility.

Explanation:

Balanitis is an inflammation of the glans (tip) of the penis, which can be caused by various factors such as irritation from soap, poor hygiene, or infections. Symptoms can include redness, itching, and white spots or patches. While it can be uncomfortable, balanitis is usually treatable and not considered serious. However, underlying issues may need to be addressed, especially if symptoms persist.

Next Steps:

  1. Maintain Hygiene: Continue your regular hygiene routine, ensuring you clean the area gently with warm water. Avoid harsh soaps or irritants.

  2. Moisturize: If the area feels dry, a gentle, unscented moisturizer may help alleviate dryness and itching.

  3. Avoid Irritants: Steer clear of any potential irritants like scented soaps or lotions until you see a healthcare provider.

  4. Monitor Symptoms: Keep track of any changes, including how long the spots and itching last, as well as any new symptoms.

  5. Consult a Urologist: You're already planning to see a urologist, which is a great step. Be sure to share all your symptoms and concerns during that visit, even if you feel it might not be a major issue.

While it’s natural to feel anxious, many causes of white spots and irritation are manageable. Your upcoming consultation will provide clearer answers and next steps tailored to your situation.

Related Questions

Semen Analysis Results: Assessing Low Motility and Vitality — Are They Temporary due to Stress?

Hello everyone, I’m a 36-year-old male and I recently received the results of my first semen analysis. I’m seeking to determine if the findings indicate a significant medical issue or if they are possibly linked to situational factors. Here’s some context that could be relevant: - I experienced considerable stress during the week the test was conducted. - My sleep quality was particularly poor the night before the test. - Since the collection took place at a clinic, I felt high levels of anxiety and minimal arousal. - Additionally, the sensation during ejaculation seemed weaker than what I normally experience. Here are the key results from the analysis: - Volume: 2.3 ml - Concentration: 30.9 million/ml - Total sperm count: approximately 71 million - Morphology: 9% (WHO reference is ≥4%) - Progressive motility: 18% (considered low) - Total motility: 36.7% (on the lower side of normal) - Vitality: 39% (low range) - No infections detected, no agglutination, and low white blood cell count The lab remarked on the presence of asthenozoospermia and necrozoospermia, indicating issues with motility and vitality. I also have some pertinent medical background: - I underwent orchidopexy as a child, resulting in one testicle being somewhat smaller while the other appears normal. - A recent urine analysis yielded normal results. - I am experiencing no pain and have shown no indications of infection. Here are my inquiries: - Is it plausible that acute stress, lack of sleep, and anxiety during the clinic visit could lead to significant reductions in motility and vitality in just one analysis? - Considering the normal sperm count and morphology, does this situation imply that the issues might be more functional or temporary rather than permanent? - Should repeating the semen analysis under more favorable conditions be the next logical step?

Growth & DevelopmentPediatricsChild Psychology
Male25-34
14 hours ago

Is it Safe to Apply a Separated Ointment?

I have a one-month-old daughter who has been dealing with a yeast infection, for which her pediatrician recommended Miconazole cream. After finishing the first tube, I noticed some persistent red spots, prompting the doctor to prescribe another tube. However, I've noticed something concerning with this second tube; it appears to have separated. On squeezing the tube, a white cream and a clear, oily liquid resembling olive oil emerge. Should I attempt to mix the contents of the tube, or is this separation an indication of a problem? I’m unsure whether it is safe to apply this ointment. Unfortunately, my pediatrician’s office is closed for the weekend, and I've already observed that my daughter's rash is beginning to reappear after just half a day without the ointment.

Childhood InfectionsPediatricsDevelopmental Medicine
Male25-34
16 hours ago

Concerns Regarding My Father's Prostate MRI Results

Greetings, I'm reaching out because my father, who is 71 years old, recently underwent an ultrasound that revealed a nodule. His physician suggested an MRI for further examination, assuring us that there was no immediate cause for alarm. However, the findings indicated a PI-RADS score of 4, with a nodule measuring about 0.5 by 0.6 cm. This nodule, located in the transition zone, is non-encapsulated and poorly defined, though there are no indications of it extending beyond the prostate. His PSA level is 0.96 ng/mL and the PSA density is measured at 0.03, with the prostate’s total volume being 34cc. I find myself anxious over the PI-RADS 4 classification, as it suggests a relatively high risk for cancer, even though the PSA levels appear to be more reassuring. Thankfully, my father is asymptomatic and appears to be in good health. A follow-up appointment has already been arranged, but I’m curious—should I be concerned about any urgent implications or potential serious outcomes from this situation?

Childhood InfectionsPediatricsDevelopmental Medicine
Male25-34
21 hours ago

Concern Over Cystic Lesions: Seeking Clarification

Greetings, I’m a 23-year-old female recently diagnosed with adenomyosis and polycystic ovarian syndrome following an MRI examination. While I have a scheduled consultation with my doctor in a week, I find myself anxious for clarity on certain findings from the MRI report, which I am sharing below. The report indicates the presence of: - A thicc-walled cystic lesion exhibiting peripheral wall enhancement, approximately 2 by 1.6 cm in size, located in the right ovary, with noted thin internal septation and irregularities in the internal mucosal structure. - A smaller cyst, measuring about 2 cm in diameter, also in the right ovary, displaying thin internal septation. My primary concern regards the thick-walled cystic lesion: could it be benign, or should I be alarmed, indicating a need for further evaluation by my gynecologist? I understand that smaller cysts are generally not a cause for concern, but I wonder if this applies only to those that are uniformly shaped and possess thinner walls. The MRI was performed to evaluate potential endometriosis. A previous transvaginal ultrasound ruled out deep infiltrating endometriosis, prompting the MRI to ensure no abnormalities were overlooked, especially given that my calprotectin level was significantly elevated at over 1000, despite a colonoscopy revealing no signs of inflammation, along with reports of resistance detected externally from the colon suggesting the possibility of endometriosis. While I await my appointment, I would greatly appreciate any insights into these findings. Moreover, the MRI results also highlighted mild pelvic congestion and a small amount of free fluid in the pouch of Douglas (POD). --- Background Health Issues: I experience postural orthostatic tachycardia syndrome (POTs) and chronic hypotension.

Growth & DevelopmentLearning DisabilitiesPediatrics
Male25-34
22 hours ago

Can Blood Test Results Be Inaccurate?

Background: 23, Assigned Female at Birth (AFAB) I undergo testosterone cypionate injections on a weekly basis. As a trans man, I have been receiving testosterone therapy for four years. Recently, I switched to a new hormone specialist and underwent blood testing with him. Historically, my testosterone levels have typically fluctuated between 400 to 600 ng/dL. However, the results from my recent test showed a concerning level of only 67 ng/dL. I have been diligent about my injections, although I did miss one month a few months back due to mental health challenges. Is it possible for testosterone levels to fall so drastically after just a month without a shot? I had the test done six days following my latest injection. I'm left wondering if this level drop is plausible or if it could indicate a mistake in the lab results.

PediatricsChild PsychologyDevelopmental Medicine
Male25-34
22 hours ago