References UK clinical guidance from the NHS, the British HIV Association (BHIVA), and the British Association for Sexual Health and HIV (BASHH). Last updated: April 2026.
Bumps on the buttocks are very common and usually not an STI. Folliculitis (infected hair follicles), acne, and ingrown hairs are the most frequent causes. However, herpes, molluscum contagiosum, and (less commonly) syphilis can cause bumps in this area, particularly if they appeared after sexual contact.
Not sure? Get tested with a home STI kit
Common Non-STI Causes
- Folliculitis: Red, pus-filled bumps at hair follicle sites. Caused by bacteria, friction, or shaving. Very common on buttocks.
- Acne: Buttock acne is common, especially with tight clothing or sweating
- Ingrown hairs: Painful bumps from hairs growing back into skin, common after shaving or waxing
- Keratosis pilaris: Small, rough bumps (“chicken skin”). Harmless and genetic
- Boils/abscesses: Larger, painful, pus-filled lumps caused by deep bacterial infection
STI-Related Bumps on the Buttocks
Genital herpes
Herpes can cause outbreaks on the buttocks, particularly HSV-2. Look for: clusters of small blisters that break into painful ulcers, tingling before outbreak, recurrence in the same area. Read more: Genital herpes
Molluscum contagiosum
Small, firm, dome-shaped bumps with a dimple in the centre. Flesh-coloured or pearly. Can appear on buttocks, thighs, and groin. Spread through skin contact including sex. Usually clears on its own in 6-18 months.
Syphilis rash
Secondary syphilis can cause a widespread rash including the buttocks. Typically reddish-brown, non-itchy spots. Usually appears alongside rash on trunk, palms, and soles. Read more: Syphilis rash
When to See a Doctor
- Bumps appeared after sexual contact with a new partner
- Painful blisters or ulcers (possible herpes)
- Firm bumps with central dimple (possible molluscum)
- Rash also on palms, soles, or trunk (possible syphilis)
- Bumps keep coming back in the same area
Frequently Asked Questions
Are pimples on the buttocks normal?
Yes. Folliculitis and acne on the buttocks are very common, especially in people who sit for long periods, wear tight clothing, or exercise frequently. They’re not STIs.
Can herpes appear only on the buttocks?
Yes. Herpes can affect the buttocks, upper thighs, and lower back. The nerve pathways that HSV travels along can cause outbreaks in these areas rather than on the genitals.
Related reading
- Abnormal Genital Discharge and Chlamydia
- Asymptomatic STIs: Silent Infections Explained
- Causes of Painful Sex and How to Treat It
- Cold Sores vs Syphilis Sores: How to Tell the Difference
- Common STI Symptoms in Women
Sources
- NHS — Sexual health conditions
- BASHH — UK clinical guidelines for STI management
- British HIV Association (BHIVA) — HIV treatment guidelines
- Terrence Higgins Trust — sexual health information
- UK Health Security Agency — STI surveillance data
Steve Page is a recognised expert on Sexually Transmitted Diseases (STDs) and STD treatments, having published numerous articles in peer-reviewed journals and presented his research at conferences around the world. He has an in-depth understanding of the latest medical research on STDs, and is an advocate for the development of new treatments and protocols to improve the health of those affected. In addition to his research, he has dedicated his career to understanding the causes and symptoms of STDs, as well as how to best treat those impacted.
