Penis & Testicle Concerns / Question
Published: October 24, 2002
Dear TeenHealthFX,
Dark areas on my penis have developed especially around the foreskin and on the head. Why is it getting darker?
Signed: Dark Areas on Penis
Dear Dark Areas on Penis,
Unfortunately, TeenHealthFX cannot diagnose you over the Internet. Only a doctor can do so, and you should probably make an appointment to see one. While the dark areas on your penis could be completely normal changes associated with puberty, any sort of unusual growths or discolorations in your genital region should definitely get checked out by a physician.
You do not mention if these dark areas have appeared randomly or are associated with some sort of change in your life, such as frequent masturbation or sexual activity. Sometimes when skin gets traumatized (for example, from excessive masturbation or intercourse over a long period of time), it can leave behind a brown mark with extra pigment. It is essential that you get checked out because pigmented lesions of the penis are fairly uncommon and can only be properly diagnosed by a doctor.
A teen health clinic can see teens for sexual health reasons confidentially, without your parent's permission and on a low/no cost basis. If you live in the Northern New Jersey area you can call the Adolescent/Young Adult Center For Health at 973.971.6475 for an appointment. If you live outside Northern New Jersey, please call your local Planned Parenthood.
Signed: TeenHealthFX
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