What should you know about tiny penile warts?

Genital warts are usually flesh-coloured, pink, or slightly grey growths that may be smooth or textured and may occur singly or in clusters. Other penile bumps can be normal anatomy, irritation, molluscum, or another skin condition. A sexual-health clinician or dermatologist can examine the area and decide whether testing is needed.

Human papillomavirus can spread through intimate skin-to-skin contact, including when there is no obvious wart. Do not blame yourself or a partner based on when a bump appeared; timing cannot reliably identify when an infection was acquired.

Arrange an assessment and avoid shaving over, picking, burning, or applying pharmacy wart acids to penile skin. Until reviewed, condoms may reduce but do not eliminate skin contact with affected areas. Discuss testing for other sexually transmitted infections and tell current partners that you are being assessed.

Treatment depends on the number, location, pregnancy considerations for a partner, and whether the diagnosis is confirmed. Options can include [Imiquimod Treatment](/treatments/medical-dermatology/imiquimod-therapy/), [Cryotherapy (Lesion Removal)](/treatments/surgical-dermatology/cryotherapy-lesion-removal/), [Electrosurgery](/treatments/surgical-dermatology/electrosurgery/), or [Wart Removal](/treatments/surgical-dermatology/wart-removal/).

Seek prompt care for bleeding, ulceration, severe pain, pus, rapidly spreading lesions, trouble passing urine, or a new lump inside the urethral opening. Get urgent help for inability to urinate, severe swelling, or fever with worsening genital pain. These features can indicate a problem other than a simple wart.

Ask whether the bumps look like warts or another condition, whether sexually transmitted infection tests are advised, which treatment fits their location, and how to protect partners during care. Ask what skin reaction to expect from treatment and when to return.