I have lots of little bumps (almost like goosebumps or whiteheads) on my penis. Is this a sign that something is wrong? – Colin* If you've never had sex, little white bumps on the shaft of the penis may be pimples, a skin cyst, or ingrown hairs. These are common and they're nothing to worry about. Another condition that's normal and no cause for concern is pearly penile papules. These whitish bumps appear on the glans (head) of the penis or along the edge of the glans in many guys. Pimples, cysts, ingrown hairs and papules won't do any harm — though if you try to pop them they could get infected. If you are having sex or have had sex in the past, bumps on the penis may be signs of sexually transmitted diseases (STDs, also called sexually transmitted infections or STIs). Painful blisters, bumps, or ulcers may be herpes. Genital warts (HPV) also can show up as bumps on the penis. Sometimes these are irregular in shape or hard to see, and they're not painful. Syphilis also can give a guy painless ulcers on his penis. Finally, molluscum contagiosum is an infection that can be spread through sexual contact and give someone small, painless bumps. STDs may not give a guy painful bumps, but they can put your health (and your partner's health) at risk if they are not treated quickly. If you're concerned about bumps on your penis, see a doctor or go to a clinic for advice on what to do. Don't try to pop any bumps or use pimple cream on them, as this could make things worse. *Names have been changed to protect user privacy. Back to Articles Related Articles Genital Herpes Genital herpes is a sexually transmitted disease (STD). There's no cure for genital herpes, but medicines can help control it. Read More Condoms Condoms may be a good birth control option for couples who are responsible enough to use one each time and people who want protection against STDs. Read More STDs (Sexually Transmitted Diseases) You've probably heard lots of discouraging news about sexually transmitted diseases. The good news is that STDs can be prevented. Find out how to protect yourself. Read More Is My Penis Normal? Just about every guy wonders about the size of his penis at one time or another. Read More Genital Warts (HPV) Genital warts usually are caused by the human papillomavirus (HPV), which also can lead to cervical cancer and other types of cancer. The HPV vaccine can prevent HPV infection. Read More Note: All information is for educational purposes only. For specific medical advice, diagnoses, and treatment, consult your doctor. © 1995-2021 KidsHealth®. All rights reserved. Images provided by The Nemours Foundation, iStock, Getty Images, Veer, Shutterstock, and Clipart.com.