Do I Need Circumcision? Foreskin Issues and Itching

Prepuce issues and itching at the glans margin?

I did not undergo circumcision when I was younger, and I didn't pull back my foreskin while bathing.
It wasn't until middle school that I learned I should retract the foreskin to clean properly.
I would like to ask whether I need to get circumcised or if it's okay to leave it as is.
When not erect, my glans is completely covered, but when erect, the tip of the glans slightly emerges.
I can retract the foreskin during an erection, but it retracts back when released.

There are small white spots along the edges of the glans, as well as a small patch of white spots on the top of the glans.
They are not painful or itchy, but the edges sometimes suddenly itch.
When I retract the foreskin and touch it, it can also be itchy.
However, after researching online, I found that pearly penile papules are not painful or itchy.
Is there an immediate need to seek medical attention for this? Thank you for your guidance!

A-Hsien, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2016/04/15

Dr. Li Xinyi reply Urology

It sounds like there may not be any issues.
However, the foreskin may require surgical intervention.
It is advisable to see a urologist for an examination and to discuss it with the physician.

Reply Date: 2016/04/15

More Info

When considering whether circumcision is necessary, it's important to evaluate several factors related to your specific situation, including hygiene, comfort, and any potential medical concerns. Based on your description, it seems that you have some concerns about the foreskin and the associated itching and white spots on the glans (the head of the penis).
Firstly, it’s essential to understand that the foreskin serves a protective function for the glans, and many men live comfortably with their foreskin without any issues. However, proper hygiene is crucial. Since you mentioned that you only started to clean under the foreskin after middle school, it’s important to ensure that you are cleaning it regularly and thoroughly to prevent any buildup of smegma, which can lead to irritation or infections.

Regarding the itching you experience, it could be due to several reasons, including irritation from not cleaning properly, a fungal infection, or even a skin condition like balanitis. The presence of small white spots on the glans could be a normal anatomical variation known as pearly penile papules, which are harmless and do not require treatment. However, if these spots change in appearance, become painful, or are accompanied by other symptoms, it would be wise to consult a healthcare professional.

As for the foreskin itself, you mentioned that it can be retracted when erect, which is a positive sign. If you can comfortably retract the foreskin without pain or discomfort, and if you can maintain good hygiene, circumcision may not be necessary. However, if you experience recurrent infections, significant discomfort, or if the foreskin cannot be retracted easily (a condition known as phimosis), circumcision might be recommended.

In terms of the itching, if it is persistent and bothersome, it would be advisable to see a healthcare provider. They can perform a physical examination and possibly run tests to determine the cause of the itching and any other symptoms you may have. They can also provide guidance on whether circumcision is appropriate for your situation.

In summary, circumcision is not universally necessary and depends on individual circumstances. If you maintain good hygiene, do not experience pain or recurrent infections, and can retract the foreskin comfortably, you may not need to consider circumcision. However, if you have ongoing concerns about itching or the appearance of your glans, it is best to consult a healthcare professional for a thorough evaluation and personalized advice.

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