Penis discoloration

[silfin]

Hi I'm a 25 year old male and I've recently noticed that I've acquired some different pigmentation on my penis shaft and head.  I've only had two partners in the past months and wore protection with both.  I do not experience any pain from the discoloration.  Just a couple months ago my girlfriend did purchase me a sex toy, and I believe the cause of the discoloration may be from the rubbing of the toy. I use hand lotion as a lubrication while using the toy, but could the friction cause brusing and the lead to the skin discoloration? I've read up on Vitiligo, but no one in my family has had such cases before and I don't have it anywhere else on my body.  I also have to small bumps at the base of my penis they do not hurt nor are they red. I believe they are ingrown hairs, but I have had no success in getting rid of them.  Any suggestions on the skin discolorations and bumps?  I've read a lot of things on saying to use vitamin k cream or go tanning.  Do these work?

[Vanessa Lacuesta]

Hi

STD's seldom present with discolorations. Usually, STD's present with redness, itchiness, or a burning sensation. These symptoms may be associated with a penile discharge or burning in urination. Vitiligo on the other hand, may not be entirely ruled out here. However, if the discolorations on the penile shaft present as stark white patches with well delineated borders then vitiligo may be a possible cause. If discolorations are purplish, bluish or violaceous then a hematoma may be likely. Hematomas should resolve in a week's time. Monitor this for at least a week. If the condition persists or worsens, then have this assessed promptly.

[silfin]

So you would definately say it's not a std nor vitiligo. How long do you think I should monitor the issue before contacting a doctor?

[Vanessa Lacuesta]

Hi

I would not advise you to apply anything on the genitals just yet. Applying creams and lotions may only aggravate the condition. Skin discolorations may be your skin's reaction to certain materials the skin may be sensitive to. As in your case, you have mentioned of recently using a sex toy. You may be developing a sensitivity reaction to this. Bruising may be due to suction pressure or vigorous manipulation of the area. The genitals are extremely vascularized that is they are highly supplied by blood vessels. This makes them quite sensitive to mild forms of injury.

Observe the skin condition. Abstain from any sexual activity and use of materials that may only aggravate the condition. If the condition persists and if the discoloration appears to spread in other parts of the body, then you may need prompt consult for this.