Pearly Penile Papules, or PPP as it is sometimes known, are pimple-like growths that appear on the penis. They are not infections, neither are they transmitted through sexual intercourse. But they are often mistaken for a sexually transmitted disease or infection like genital warts. This kind of growth occurs in approximately 8-40% of the male populace and has no harmful effects.
These pimple-like growths are discovered to have no certified cause, and it is unclear why they appear on the penis. However, it helps to know how to identify these growths to avoid mistaking them for severe and harmful growths or vice versa. The characteristics of pearly penile Papules are:
- These growths always occur on the penis’s head. If you notice growth in other areas, it is not PPP
- Unlike genital warts, they do not form in a cauliflower-like shape or pattern
- They have a smooth surface, more like a pimple but do not try popping them because they do not contain pus
- They grow in relatively uniform rows
- Their colour ranges from white to pink to yellow
- They have a size range of 1-2mm in width and 1-4mm in length
Can PPP Be Cured?
While some instances of PPP do fade as time passes, other cases remain permanent. As you’ll see below, there are a variety of ways in which PPP can be successfully treated.
Ways Of Removing Pearly Penile Papules
Most individuals who have pearly penile papules choose to have them removed, because of how their sexual partners react before sexual intercourse. Many sexual partners are uncomfortable with the idea of participating in sexual intercourse with someone who has PPP. Several techniques have been introduced to help remove and cure people of these skin growths. These techniques are:
- Laser resurfacing: this involves using lasers to destroy the excess cells that result in PPP growths. This treatment needs to be performed by an experienced and licensed doctor. It is the safest of all methods as there are no risks involved.
- Electrosurgery: this involves the use of an amplified current to fry the excess cells that result in PPP.
- Cryosurgery: this method is also used in treating genital warts, where a chemical solution is used to freeze the pimple-like bumps on the penis.
- Surgical excision: this concerns the use of surgical tools to cut-off bumps present on the penis. Never make the mistake of doing this yourself.
Are The Treatment Procedures for Painful?
In truth, yes, but the pain experienced is bearable both during and after the treatment. Some doctors make use of anaesthetics on their patients during the treatment process. The penis does not take long to heal after treatment.
Conclusion
It would be a mistake concluding that any growth on your penis is PPP because of the symptoms highlighted above. Be sure to check with a licensed doctor to determine if the growth is PPP or a harmful infection or disease.
Ensure that your doctor takes you through everything you need to know about PPP treatment or removal to get an idea of the process.
