I get a blister-like lump on penis the next day after unprotected sex. Is it due to STD?

Question

Hello doctor,

I woke up this morning after having unprotected sex last night, with a clear blister-like bump on my penis. It is not painful and no discharge. I am concerned about herpes or other STDs. I have been tested positive for HSV-1. I have had cold sores growing up around my mouth but never any STDs or sores on my penis. Could it just be from friction from the sex and not an STD?

Answer 1

Hello,

Welcome to icliniq.com.

I read your query and had a close look over the provided image (attachment removed to protect patient identity). Unfortunately, the image is not clear so I will be answering it on the basis of general knowledge in case of STDs (sexually transmitted diseases).

Genital herpes is the one condition that generally appears within two weeks of exposure and blisters are one of the presentations. This is possible that you have new lesions on the penis due to previous exposure to herpes.

We need to understand that it is not uncommon to have genital herpes for individuals with lesions around the mouth. However, the absence of any break out over the six months indicates that it was recently acquired from the current partner or someone who was engaged with you in the last two weeks.

Friction is one possibility but the symptoms are often apparent during sexual intercourse or immediately after it. If you recall some discomfort during sexual intercourse this can be the reason for current symptoms. However, I like to inform you that blisters due to friction are very rare and we need to keep it as the last possibility.

Chancroid is one more possibility that can appear within a day but the lesions are often painful. Considering all the facts and blurred images I feel genital herpes is the first possibility for nonpainful blister over the penis.

I hope this helps.