HomeAnswersDermatologyfordyce spotsI have small, white, pale spots on my glans penis after having protected intercourse with a sex worker. Should I get tested for STDs?

Are small, white spots on the glans penis after a protected intercourse with a sex worker suggestive of STDs?

Share

The following is an actual conversation between an iCliniq user and a doctor that has been reviewed and published as a Premium Q&A.

Medically reviewed by

Dr. K. Shobana

Published At September 29, 2022
Reviewed AtJanuary 18, 2024

Patient's Query

Hello doctor,

I had protected intercourse with a sex worker two weeks back. I have had small, white, pale spots on my glans for a week. I did not have such spots in the past. Also, I do not have pain or a burning sensation. However, recently I had a cold, cough, and throat infection. Should I get tested for STDs?

Hello,

Welcome to icliniq.com.

I understand your concern. As per the history provided, the pale or white spots appearing on glans penis may be due to multiple reasons, including candida balanitis which is a fungal infection, fordyce spots which are harmless spots that may keep reappearing and usually do not require treatment or due to STIs (sexually transmitted infections). However, I suggest you go for sexual panel tests as there is a recent history of sexual activity. Also, it is good to undergo STI panel tests on a routine basis annually. As for the current lesion, I suggest you kindly provide images showing the lesions for a confirmatory diagnosis and further treatment. I hope this helps. Thank you.

Patient's Query

Hello doctor,

I have attached the images for your reference.

Hello,

Welcome back to icliniq.com.

I have reviewed the images (attachment removed to protect the patient's identity). The lesions are fordyce spots. They are harmless white spots, papules, or patches which appear in the mucosal areas, most commonly on the lips and mucosal surfaces like the glans penis. They keep reappearing, are harmless, usually subside on their own, and require no treatment. However, I suggest you use cream Clotrimazole twice daily for faster relief. Also, avoid using harsh chemicals or soaps for washing your private areas. Instead, you may use lukewarm salt water to clean the area once daily. Finally, you must avoid unprotected sexual activity or sexual exposure with individuals who may be at risk of STIs. I hope this helps. Thank you.

Same symptoms don't mean you have the same problem. Consult a doctor now!

Dr. Sandhya Narayanan Kutty
Dr. Sandhya Narayanan Kutty

Venereology

Community Banner Mobile
By subscribing, I agree to iCliniq's Terms & Privacy Policy.

Read answers about:

fordyce spotsprotected sex

Ask your health query to a doctor online

Dermatology

*guaranteed answer within 4 hours

Disclaimer: No content published on this website is intended to be a substitute for professional medical diagnosis, advice or treatment by a trained physician. Seek advice from your physician or other qualified healthcare providers with questions you may have regarding your symptoms and medical condition for a complete medical diagnosis. Do not delay or disregard seeking professional medical advice because of something you have read on this website. Read our Editorial Process to know how we create content for health articles and queries.

This website uses cookies to ensure you get the best experience on our website. iCliniq privacy policy