Sensitivity and Pain After Circumcision: A Urology Perspective

Glans and foreskin issues?

Hello doctor, due to a lack of knowledge in my childhood, I only realized as an adult that I need to clean my foreskin.
I have phimosis, but I can’t fully retract it without an erection; the glans and foreskin are very sensitive and painful, so I’ve been afraid to clean it, and it has been a long time.
I’ve been avoiding this issue.
Whenever the glans and foreskin come into contact with anything external, such as touch, it becomes very sensitive and painful, which prevents me from cleaning it.
I would like to know if the glans will hurt after a circumcision.
If I undergo anesthesia and cleaning, will I experience the same pain I have now? Is it possible that my sensitivity is due to a long period without contact with external objects? Since my foreskin is not particularly tight, if the cleaning after anesthesia goes well and I decide not to have a circumcision, but then I start to feel that kind of pain from external contact, I’m unsure whether that would be considered pain or sensitivity.
In any case, my reflexes would cause me to withdraw...
I’m really troubled by this.

Lin Xiansheng, 10~19 year old female. Ask Date: 2016/10/20

Dr. Fu Shizhang reply Urology

1.
The glans will not hurt during circumcision, but it will be very sensitive to touch.
2.
Sensation of pain will decrease after anesthesia.
3.
Less contact naturally leads to increased sensitivity, which is also related to individual constitution; the sensation of sensitivity must be gradually reduced through increased contact.
Online consultations cannot replace an in-person examination and physical assessment by a physician; it is still recommended to seek medical attention at healthcare facilities when there are health issues.

Reply Date: 2016/10/20

More Info

Understanding sensitivity and pain after circumcision is a multifaceted issue that involves anatomical, physiological, and psychological factors. As you described, the sensitivity of the glans (the head of the penis) and the foreskin can lead to discomfort and pain, especially if there has been limited exposure to external stimuli over time.
When a person has phimosis, which is the inability to retract the foreskin fully, it can lead to a buildup of smegma and increased sensitivity due to lack of hygiene. This can create a cycle of discomfort where the individual avoids cleaning the area, leading to further sensitivity and potential inflammation. The sensitivity you are experiencing is likely due to the nerve endings in the glans being more exposed and reactive, especially if they have not been accustomed to regular contact with external stimuli.

Circumcision, which involves the surgical removal of the foreskin, can initially lead to pain and sensitivity in the glans as it becomes exposed for the first time. However, many patients report that over time, the sensitivity decreases as the glans becomes accustomed to being exposed. The pain you might feel post-surgery is typically managed with local anesthesia during the procedure, and any discomfort afterward can often be alleviated with pain management strategies prescribed by your healthcare provider.

Regarding your concerns about cleaning the area after circumcision, it is essential to follow your doctor's instructions. After circumcision, the area will be sensitive, and there may be some discomfort during the healing process. However, proper hygiene is crucial to prevent infections and promote healing. If you experience pain during cleaning, it is vital to differentiate between normal sensitivity and pain that could indicate an issue, such as infection or improper healing.

Your question about whether the pain you might feel after cleaning is due to long-term lack of exposure is valid. The glans can become hypersensitive if it has been protected by the foreskin for an extended period. After circumcision, as the area heals and becomes accustomed to exposure, this sensitivity typically diminishes.
If you are considering circumcision due to your sensitivity and pain, it is essential to discuss your concerns with a urologist. They can provide you with a thorough evaluation and help you understand the potential outcomes of the procedure, including the likelihood of pain or sensitivity post-surgery.
In summary, while sensitivity and pain after circumcision can be common, they are usually manageable and decrease over time. It is crucial to maintain open communication with your healthcare provider about your symptoms and concerns to ensure you receive appropriate care and guidance tailored to your situation.

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