Phimosis: Do You Always Need to Retract the Foreskin?

Q: Phimosis: Do You Always Need to Retract the Foreskin?

Hello： If you are unable to push it down, do not force it. <br>You should seek medical attention to see if surgery is necessary. <br>If possible (it must be possible), you should retract the foreskin behind the glans.

Phimosis issues?

If someone has phimosis but can see the glans opening, is it necessary to always retract the foreskin behind the glans in the future?

Zhong, 10~19 year old female. Ask Date: 2017/11/12

Dr. Du Shixi reply Urology

Hello: If you are unable to push it down, do not force it.
You should seek medical attention to see if surgery is necessary.
If possible (it must be possible), you should retract the foreskin behind the glans.

Reply Date: 2017/11/12

More Info

Phimosis is a condition in which the foreskin cannot be easily retracted over the glans (the head of the penis). It can be a normal condition in infants and young boys, as their foreskins are often not retractable at that age. However, as boys grow older, the foreskin typically becomes more retractable. In your case, if you can see the opening of the glans but are experiencing phimosis, it is important to understand the implications and management of this condition.

First, it is not always necessary to forcibly retract the foreskin, especially if it causes pain or discomfort. The goal of managing phimosis is to ensure that there is no pain, infection, or other complications. If you can see the glans and there is no pain or difficulty urinating, you may not need to retract the foreskin completely. However, gentle retraction during hygiene practices is often recommended to keep the area clean and to prevent infections.

If you are experiencing any discomfort, pain, or recurrent infections, it may be advisable to consult a healthcare professional. They can provide guidance on whether you need to perform retraction exercises or if other treatments are necessary. In some cases, a healthcare provider may recommend topical steroid creams to help loosen the foreskin, or they may discuss surgical options such as circumcision if the condition is severe and causing significant issues.

It is also essential to practice good hygiene. If you can see the glans, ensure that you clean the area gently with water during bathing. Avoid using harsh soaps or scrubbing too hard, as this can irritate the sensitive skin.

In summary, while it is beneficial to have the foreskin retracted for hygiene purposes, it is not always necessary to do so forcibly, especially if it causes discomfort. If you have concerns about your condition or if you experience any symptoms such as pain, swelling, or recurrent infections, it is best to consult a healthcare professional for personalized advice and treatment options.

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