Usually, embarrassing health topics are best discussed with your doctor - and we all know they're medical professionals and won't laugh at you.

But even the most shameless of patients would probably have difficulty discussing the matter of bum pimples with their doctors.

After all, it's not really life-threatening, is it? It seems a bit too trivial to discuss after a routine check-up.

So what should we do about them, should one pop up? Dermatologist Dr Anjali Mahto spoke to Refinery29 about why they occur and how to avoid them.

Why do we get them?

Dr Mahto explained that "spots affecting the buttocks are quite common" and are caused mainly by the condition folliculitis, where irritation, infection or blockage of the hair follicles causes a red, bumpy rash on the skin.

According to Mahto, they occur just as often on men as they do on women and these pimples can pop up anywhere you have hair follicles.

Because your bum feels the pressure of you sitting down on a daily basis, the hair follicles can become more inflamed and infected than anywhere else on the body.

If you're a fitness fanatic, tight synthetic gym clothes can trap sweat around the hair follicles and add to the problem, so choose a breathable fabric.

How to prevent them

Dr Mahto recommends choosing a mild cleanser which is "as natural and perfume-free as possible" for your daily shower. Never use any oily products as this can trap bacteria in the pores.

You should also make sure you shower immediately after exercise as "heat, sweat and synthetic clothing can contribute."

Avoid sharing towels and don't shave over the bumps.

How to get rid of them

Already been blessed with pimples on your buttocks? Get an antiseptic wash to get rid of the bacteria.

If it's itchy, try a warm compress. Dr Mahto says topical acne treatments can also help to reduce inflammation.

If your folliculitis isn't better in a few weeks, then seek the advice of a medical professional.