The human body is a complex thing, and it is constantly undergoing changes. While some changes might occur gradually, there are some that pop up seemingly overnight.
While some changes can be normal, it is still important to keep tabs on all of them so you can always know when something goes awry.
If you have little white bumps on your lips or private parts, you are not alone. Around 70% to 80% of adults also face this phenomenon!

These bumps which are usually white in color can appear on your lips or genitals. They might cause worry if you do not know what they are. According to the Cleveland Clinic, they are known as Fordyce Spots. The medical professionals at the clinic also say that it is common, saying that they are ‘a common skin condition where oil glands appear larger’.

“They become more noticeable during or after puberty,” the website shares. “They often appear on and around your lips and sometimes on your penis and vagina. They’re a natural part of your skin, but treatments can shrink or remove them.”

There is no particular cause behind them either. Usually, people are born with them, but they become more obvious to the eyes during puberty. Fordyce spots usually clear out on their own. However, there are a few ways you can remove them.
You can use retinoid creams or topical creams to apply on areas with the white bumps. This can help reduce them over time. However, if you are looking for solutions that give a more immediate effect, then there are a few available like micro-punch surgery, cryotherapy, electrodesiccation, or laser skin resurfacing.

Are Fordyce spots contagious?
Sometimes, when people get these little white bumps on their body, they confuse it for an STD or STI. But thankfully, Fordyce Spots are not either of them.

A lot of people at times worry that they might be genital warts but thankfully they are not and hence they are not contagious either. The spots are not cancerous and hence nothing to worry about.

“People with genital warts develop small bumps or growths in and around their genitals and rectum,” Cleveland Clinic website says. “Genital warts and HPV are both highly contagious.”

“As genital warts initially develop, they may look like Fordyce spots. If you notice the sudden appearance of small bumps on your genitals, it’s a good idea to see a healthcare provider for a proper diagnosis,” the website advises.

Usually, a medical professional is not needed to diagnose Fordyce spots; however, if you notice that your genitals have some bumps, it is a good idea to seek professional help from a qualified practitioner so something more serious can be ruled out.

Did you know about Fordyce spots? Let us know in the comments. Share this with others to see what they think of these spots and whether they knew about them