Red bumps on penis ; can i be allergic to condoms?

[spanky231]

Hey,
Recently I have gotten some red bumps on my penis. Not just on my head but, also right under it. Also, my penis looks sorta ashy. I've only been sexually active for about 7 months and slept with one girl. I'm pretty sure she doesn't have any stds. These bumps itch every now and then. I'm scared I have herpes, but i want to make sure before I go asuming things. Also, I feel like I might be allergic to condoms because every time I use one the bumps start irritating me. If anyone knows what this could be or has any advice on what to do I would greatly appreciate it.
Thanks.

[Bhupinder Kaur, MD]

Hello,
It looks like chafing or friction rub to the condoms rather than any STD which usually presents as red open painful sores. Chafing occurs when the skin becomes irritated by the friction caused by rubbing either against other skin or against a foreign material. Wash the areas several times with fresh water. Do not use any cosmetic products at the sites. You can apply some calamine lotion at the rash as it will help in soothing the skin. Also wear cotton undergarments and take some antihistaminic like Benadryl for the itching. Application of mild corticosteroid cream and oral antiinflammatories like ibuprofen/acetaminophen are also helpful. If the symptoms are severe then it will be best to consult a dermatologist.

It is very difficult to precisely confirm a diagnosis without examination and investigations and the answer is based on the medical information provided. For exact diagnosis, you are requested to consult your doctor. I sincerely hope that helps. Take care and please do keep me posted on how you are doing.

[Ashwin Bhandari, MBBS]

Hi, thanks for your query.  If you are sure your partner she did not have std then it is possible that you r suffering from contact dermatitis.  Abstain from sex for sometime. Oral antihistamines and topical preparations may benefit you.  I advice you to consult a dermatologist.   If symptoms remain or worsen.  Blood tests to rule out infection is entailed.
Take care