❓ Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

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Q1: Are red bumps always a sign of an STD?
No. Red bumps can be caused by irritation, shaving, allergic reactions, or infections like folliculitis—not just STDs.

Q2: How can I tell if it’s herpes?
Herpes typically causes painful blisters that crust over, sometimes with flu-like symptoms. Only testing can confirm it.

Q3: Can I diagnose myself with pictures online?
No. While pictures help, many conditions look similar. Always consult a doctor or clinic for testing.

Q4: Should I be worried about a few small bumps?
Not necessarily. But if they’re painful, spreading, or recurring, get tested immediately.

Q5: Can I treat red bumps at home?
Some causes like folliculitis or irritation resolve on their own, but STDs require professional treatment.

🚨 Seeing Red Bumps? You’re Not Alone

Each day, people turn to Reddit’s r/STD subreddit with one question:
“Are these red bumps herpes?”

Here’s what those bumps could actually be—and what to do next.

1️⃣ Folliculitis: Common and Often Harmless

Small, red pimples caused by irritated hair follicles.

Folliculitis is inflammation of hair follicles, usually triggered by shaving, friction, or sweating. It appears as:

• Small red pimples or bumps

• Mild tenderness or itchiness

• Sometimes pus-filled heads

What to do: Keep the area clean, avoid shaving, and wear loose clothing. Most cases heal within a week.

2️⃣ Genital Herpes: The Most Feared Diagnosis

Painful fluid-filled blisters in the genital region.

Herpes (HSV-1 or HSV-2) causes clusters of painful blisters that may burst and scab. You may also feel:

• Tingling or burning before a breakout

• Flu-like symptoms

• Recurring outbreaks (especially with HSV-2)

Fact: 1 in 6 people in the U.S. aged 14–49 have genital herpes. It’s manageable with antiviral medication.

3️⃣ Irritation or Allergic Reaction

Red rash or bumps caused by soap, detergent, or latex.

Not all red bumps are infections. Sometimes, your skin is just reacting to:

• Scented soaps or detergents

• Latex condoms

• New body products

If bumps are non-painful and itchy without blisters, irritation is likely the cause.

What to do: Stop using the suspected product and apply fragrance-free moisturizer.

4️⃣ Molluscum Contagiosum: Viral But Mild

Smooth, skin-colored or red bumps with a central dimple.

Molluscum is a skin virus spread through contact—sometimes sexually. It looks like:

• Small round bumps

• Often with a dimple in the center

• No pain or fluid

It’s not dangerous and usually goes away in months, but dermatologists can remove lesions faster.

5️⃣ Syphilis: The Silent Threat

Early syphilis can cause a painless ulcer-like sore, usually on the genitals. It’s often missed because:

• It doesn’t hurt

• It goes away on its own

• It may look like a pimple or cut

But without treatment, syphilis moves to the bloodstream and causes serious complications.

Get tested if you’ve had unprotected sex, especially with new partners.

🧪 When to Get Tested for STDs

If your bumps:

• Last more than 1 week

• Are painful, spreading, or blistering

• Are accompanied by fever, discharge, or swollen lymph nodes

…get tested at a clinic. Many STDs are treatable or curable with early detection.

🧭 What Not to Do

❌ Don’t pop or squeeze the bumps
❌ Don’t use random creams without knowing the cause
❌ Don’t rely only on internet forums for a diagnosis

✅ What You Should Do Instead

• Get an STD panel at a reputable lab or clinic

• Stop sexual activity until you know the cause

• Follow up with a healthcare provider if symptoms worsen

🔚 Final Thoughts

Red bumps on your genitals can be scary, but don’t jump to the worst conclusion. Many skin issues are benign, but some are signs of infections that need treatment.

Knowledge is power—and testing is peace of mind.