What can cause red spots on the penis? One possibility is genital herpes which can be caused by herpes simplex virus type 2 (HSV-2) or herpes simplex virus type 1 (HSV-1). People can get genital herpes from intercourse (vaginal or anal) with an infected person or genital-to-genital touching. It’s also possible to get genital herpes from oral sex (e.g., if someone with cold sores performs oral sex on you).
Unfortunately, it’s easy to catch herpes because so few people know they’re infected. In fact, one 2008 study published in the journal Sexually Transmitted Diseases found that 88% of people who were positive for HSV-2 had no idea because they’d never experienced symptoms.
One way to test for herpes is to see your a good competent certified competent sexologist.
Your doctor can take a sample from the sores and determine if they’re caused by HSV. Ideally, this test should be done as soon as you notice the spots because once they begin to heal, the accuracy of the test begins to decline.
You can get tested after the sores have healed, too, with a blood test for HSV-1 and HSV-2 (this is called a type-specific test that can identify what type of herpes is causing your symptoms). For the most reliable test results, you’ll need to wait at least four weeks after exposure to the virus.
If you do have herpes, I encourage you to get treated right away...not only will treatment lessen your symptoms, but it can help reduce the risk you’ll pass it to another partner. Antiviral medication can reduce the number and duration of outbreaks you have (remember, it’s best not to have sex while you have an outbreak, which is when you’re most contagious).
There are other STDs and conditions that can cause spots on the penis, too...like genital warts or syphilis. If you have an
STD, your sexual partner(s) might too...so be sure to notify them so they can get tested and treated, too, if necessary.
It’s also possible that you have another condition that’s entirely unrelated to your recent encounter. You might be experiencing an allergic reaction to a new soap, laundry detergent, lotion, lube or medication. Again, your doctor will be able to more specifically diagnose your symptoms.
It sounds like you already know that the best way to avoid STDs in the future is to practice safer sex...unless you’re in a mutually monogamous relationship with someone whose STD status you know, it’s a good idea to use a condom or a dental dam with every sexual activity. Please do not risk yr future and life by having unprotected sexual encounters with multiple partners this is a sure shot method of catching STDs