HomeAnswersDermatologyfordyce spotsWhy are watery bubbles present on either side of my penis?

What are the watery bubbles present on either side of my penis?

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

iCliniq medical review team

Published At May 4, 2016
Reviewed AtFebruary 26, 2024

Patient's Query

Hi doctor,

I have small watery bubbles on either side of my penis and they seem to have grown in number in the last few weeks. First they appeared around three months back, but very less in number. They do not cause any irritation, but increased in number and looks ugly. I have not used any medication for this. If it is not cleaned every day then some wax like white layer is formed around the head and the area covering foreskin. Please help me with this.

Hi,

Welcome to icliniq.com.

I have read your query and can well understand your concern. These lesions (attachment removed to protect patient identity) seem to be those of herpes genitalis. They could have been acquired from your partner. I would advise you to get your HSV IgM and IgG (herpes simplex virus immunoglobulin G and M) levels tested.

Did you experience any symptoms such as itching, burning, etc? Is there a complaint of any such symptoms in your partner? Do you have a history of unprotected sexual intercourse?

The white waxy layer is usually smegma, which are due to penile secretions were seen in uncircumcised males. Regular hygiene of cleaning the secretion from under the foreskin will easily clear it off.

Patient's Query

Thank you doctor,

I have not had any sex in the last three years.

Hi,

Welcome back to icliniq.com.

In that case, there is nothing to worry about as most of the STDs (sexually transmitted diseases) are ruled out. These are just dilated glands on the penile shaft, known as Fordyce spots or syringoma (overgrowth of sweat gland cells). No treatment is required for them as they are benign and may decrease or settle down with time. Also, they are harmless. If you want to get them treated for cosmetic reasons, you may ask your local dermatologist for radiofrequency laser sessions.

Patient's Query

Hi doctor,

Thank you for the response. I was curious as it may cause something wrong. Normally, how long will it take to go away? They only worrying part is they seem to get increase in number. Please recommend something to stop them from spreading more.

Hi,

Welcome back to icliniq.com.

I cannot assure you any time limit, but they may decrease in three to six months' time. Sometimes, they may persist. As I told you, there is no effective medicine for them. I would advise you not to take any medicine for these lesions from any non-dermatologist. As mostly they would give you steroids or strong irritants, which may superficially abrade these lesions. But, may cause an irritant reaction on your penile shaft. No medicine would work and only laser would, that too to some extent. The only reassurance to the patient is regarding the harmless nature of these lesions. However, if you notice any symptoms over these lesions or on these lesions in the future, do revert back.

Patient's Query

Hi doctor,

Thank you so much. I feel better now. I was little stressed over that. Thank you once again.

Hi,

Welcome back to icliniq.com.

It is my pleasure. Stay healthy.

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

Dr. Jyotisterna Mittal
Dr. Jyotisterna Mittal

Dermatology

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

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