Spots on the manhood are not always a sign of a serious condition, but they can be. Understanding what causes them and how they are treated can help men make informed decisions about their male organ health. The conditions listed below are just some of the common causes. Men who develop manhood rash, ulcers, or spots should see their doctor for evaluation and treatment.

1. Pimples. Acne spots can occur anywhere on the body, and unfortunately, not even the male organ is immune. Pimples appear as raised bumps on the skin that may be red or flesh-colored; they are often filled with pus. The best treatment for pimples on the male organ is to leave them alone; popping or squeezing them can make the problem worse, and medications intended for use on the face are generally too harsh for the manhood skin. Most pimples clear up on their own in a few days.

2. Molluscum contagiousum. This benign viral condition can cause raised, firm red spots to appear anywhere on the body. When they occur on the manhood, molluscum contagiosum is considered a partner transmitted disease, as the virus can be easily passed to a partner during intimate contact. There is no cure for the virus, but it usually clears up on its own – although this can take a year or more. Doctors may be able to remove the lesions through an outpatient procedure.

3. Petechiae. Petechiae appear as pinpoint red spots under the skin. They are caused by broken capillaries underneath the skin’s surface, usually as a result of friction. On the male organ, use of vacuum pumps has been shown to cause petechiae. These spots typically resolve on their own.

4. Inflamed follicles. Inflamed or infected hair follicles can appear as raised, red spots; these usually occur around the base of the male organ or anywhere else that hair grows. As with pimples, it is best to leave these alone rather than try to squeeze them. Maintaining good hygiene and keeping the skin well-moisturized can speed the healing process and help prevent them from coming back.

5. HSV sores. A single blister or ulcer on the male organ, especially located on the head, can be a sign of the HSV virus. This partner transmitted infection does not have a cure, and men who have it will need to take medications throughout their lives to keep it under control. HSV can be transmitted to a partner even when there are no visible symptoms. Men who are infected should talk to their doctor about how to avoid spreading the disease.

6. Thrush. This fungal infection is caused by candida yeast, which is also responsible for feminine yeast infection. It can produce a red, itchy rash, dry skin, and a whitish, lumpy discharge. Antifungal creams are needed to clear up a yeast infection.

7. Balanitis. This inflammatory condition mainly affects uncut men. It is characterized by a red rash on the glans and under the sheath, swelling, redness and soreness. While it is bacterial in origin, treatment is focused on keeping the area clean and free of smegma.

8. Jock itch. Another fungal infection, jock itch mainly appears as a red, spreading, itchy rash in the pelvic area; in some cases, it may also spread onto the male organ. Antifungal creams are used to treat this condition. Men can reduce their chances of infection by wearing clean clothing, avoiding the sharing of towels and other personal items, and keeping the area clean and dry.

9. Eczema. Also known as dermatitis, eczema can appear as a raised, red, itchy rash. Most men who have eczema on the male organ have it on other parts of their bodies, as well. Treatment may involve the use of cortisone creams; applying a high-end moisturizer before using a cortisone product can help relieve the itch and speed healing.

Men should never attempt to self-diagnose any male organ condition, as many different types of problems have similar symptoms, and some conditions can be serious. However, every man can take steps to reduce his chances of infection by using protection during intimate contact, maintaining good hygiene, and scheduling regular checkups with a doctor. Men may also choose to supplement their personal care regimen with a high-end male organ health crème (health professionals recommend Man1 Man Oil) that contains essential vitamins, amino acids and antioxidants that are important to the overall health of the manhood skin.