Phimosis: Concerns About Foreskin and Erection Issues - Urology

Share to:

Erection and foreskin?


Hello, Doctor.
I would like to ask the following questions:
1.
If I can retract the foreskin when the penis is not erect, but it does not retract on its own when erect, and manually retracting it causes tightness and pain, does this qualify as phimosis? Or is it a sign that the genitalia is not fully developed, requiring surgery?
2.
If the foreskin does not retract during an erection, can I still engage in sexual intercourse?
3.
When I shower, I always retract the foreskin to clean it, but this is in a non-erect state.
During masturbation, even if the foreskin is not retracted, semen still flows out.
Does this indicate phimosis or excessive foreskin? Can I engage in sexual intercourse? If so, what are the potential effects of doing so?

Yi, 10~19 year old female. Ask Date: 2017/06/03

Dr. Du Shixi reply Urology


Hello: 1) For males who have not been circumcised, it is often a case of phimosis, where some may have a tight foreskin while others do not.
If development is complete, the physician will provide recommendations, and circumcision is usually an option (if there is no tightness, surgery may not be necessary).
2) Yes, it is possible.
3) Yes, it is possible, and there will be no impact.

Reply Date: 2017/06/03

More Info


Phimosis is a condition where the foreskin cannot be easily retracted over the glans (the head of the penis). It can be a source of concern for many, especially regarding sexual function and hygiene. Let's address your questions one by one.

1. Phimosis Diagnosis: From your description, it seems that you can retract the foreskin when the penis is not erect, but it becomes tight and painful when attempting to do so during an erection. This situation is indicative of phimosis, particularly if the foreskin does not retract naturally during an erection. Phimosis can be classified into two types: physiological (normal in infants and young boys) and pathological (due to scarring or other conditions). If the tightness and pain are significant, it may be advisable to consult a urologist. They can assess whether surgical intervention, such as circumcision or a less invasive procedure, is necessary.
2. Engaging in Sexual Activity: If the foreskin does not retract during an erection, it may complicate sexual intercourse. While some individuals with phimosis can still engage in sexual activity, it may lead to discomfort or pain for both partners. Additionally, if the foreskin is too tight, it can lead to tearing or other injuries during intercourse, which can increase the risk of infections. Therefore, it is essential to discuss this with a healthcare provider to determine the best course of action.

3. Hygiene and Ejaculation: It’s good that you are practicing hygiene by retracting the foreskin during bathing. However, if you are unable to do so during an erection, it does not necessarily mean you have a severe condition. The fact that you can ejaculate even with the foreskin in place indicates that your reproductive function is intact. Phimosis does not inherently prevent ejaculation or sexual function, but it can lead to complications if not managed properly.
Regarding whether you can engage in sexual activity with phimosis, it is possible, but caution is advised. If the foreskin is too tight, it may lead to discomfort or pain during intercourse, and it could also increase the risk of tearing the foreskin, which can lead to bleeding or infection.
In summary, while you may be able to engage in sexual activity, it is crucial to address the tightness of the foreskin, especially if it causes pain. Consulting a urologist would provide you with a clearer understanding of your condition and the potential need for treatment. They can offer options ranging from topical treatments to surgical solutions, depending on the severity of your symptoms and your personal preferences.
In conclusion, phimosis can be managed effectively with the right medical guidance. It is essential to prioritize your comfort and health, and seeking professional advice is the best step forward.

Similar Q&A

Understanding Foreskin Issues: Phimosis, Treatment, and Sexual Health

Hello Doctor, I have the following questions to ask you: 1. When my penis is not erect, there is a section of foreskin covering the urethral opening. I can manually pull the foreskin down to expose the glans before an erection, but when I am erect, the foreskin does not automat...


Dr. Li Xinyi reply Urology
1. The foreskin seems to be a bit too long. 2. Based on your description, there doesn't appear to be any issues; however, severe phimosis or excessive foreskin can affect sexual intercourse. 3. If you have concerns, it is advisable to see a urologist for an examination a...

[Read More] Understanding Foreskin Issues: Phimosis, Treatment, and Sexual Health


Understanding Urological Concerns: Phimosis and Erectile Issues Explained

Hello doctor, I would like to ask a few questions. 1. When I am not erect, I can easily retract my foreskin for cleaning, but when I am erect, I can only pull it back halfway over the glans. Both urination and ejaculation are normal. If I do not wish to undergo circumcision, is...


Dr. Du Shixi reply Urology
Hello: 1) No. 2) There is no need for abstinence, just reduce it a little. It's important to exercise, avoid overly fatty foods, and ensure adequate sleep. Wishing you good health.

[Read More] Understanding Urological Concerns: Phimosis and Erectile Issues Explained


Understanding Penile Issues: Concerns About Phimosis and Sexual Health

Hello Doctor: I would like to ask about my condition. My glans cannot be exposed whether I am erect or not (I have never seen my entire glans, only the meatus). Some doctors have said it’s not a problem, but will it be very painful when I have intercourse in the future? My foresk...


Dr. Du Shixi reply Urology
Hello: The glans cannot be exposed during both erection and flaccidity, which is a phenomenon of phimosis. The doctor may recommend a circumcision. However, I have seen many patients with this condition who have multiple children and do not have issues with sexual activity. There...

[Read More] Understanding Penile Issues: Concerns About Phimosis and Sexual Health


Understanding Phimosis: Concerns and Solutions for Men

I believe I have phimosis, as my foreskin is long and the opening is somewhat narrow (I haven't been circumcised). When I first retracted the foreskin behind the glans for cleaning while not erect, and then pushed it back, it became tight during an erection (before retractio...


Dr. Du Shixi reply Urology
Hello: You can seek medical attention to obtain an ointment. Some people's skin may be looser, while others may not experience this. In such cases, circumcision is recommended. Wishing you good health.

[Read More] Understanding Phimosis: Concerns and Solutions for Men


Related FAQ

Phimosis

(Urology)

Foreskin

(Urology)

Erection

(Urology)

Erectile Dysfunction

(Urology)

Glans Penis

(Urology)

Syphilis

(Urology)

Hypospadias

(Urology)

Frenulum Of The Foreskin

(Urology)

Epididymitis

(Urology)

Vas Deferens

(Urology)