Is this considered phimosis or excessive foreskin?
Hello Doctor, I would like to ask about the following: 1.
When I am not erect, my foreskin completely covers the glans, and I can easily retract it behind the coronal sulcus.
2.
When erect, the shaft of my penis is larger than the glans, and I can only painfully retract the foreskin to the coronal sulcus; if I let go, it retracts back to cover half of the glans, making it feel disproportionate, like a larger body with a smaller head.
The foreskin cannot stay in place on the shaft.
3.
I am not very keen on circumcision, but my foreskin is too long, and the shaft being larger than the glans makes it difficult to keep the foreskin retracted, causing it to slide back over the glans.
I would like to know if surgery is necessary in this situation, or if there are other minor surgical options available to resolve this issue.
Thank you for your assistance.
Kunao de huanzhe, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2017/11/23
Dr. Du Shixi reply Urology
Hello: In this situation, during sexual intercourse, the foreskin may slide back and forth.
The foreskin may not be excessively long, but there is a section that is narrower.
You can try using a topical ointment without undergoing circumcision (but it is important to have a physician examine it first).
However, based on personal experience, the effectiveness may not be significant.
Wishing you good health.
Reply Date: 2017/11/23
More Info
Phimosis is a condition where the foreskin cannot be easily retracted over the glans (the head of the penis). Based on your description, it seems that you experience difficulty retracting the foreskin when the penis is erect, which can indeed be indicative of phimosis. However, since you mentioned that the foreskin can be easily pulled back when the penis is not erect, this suggests that you may have a more mild form of the condition, often referred to as "long foreskin" or "tight foreskin."
Understanding Your Condition
1. Normal Anatomy: In a healthy male, the foreskin should be able to retract easily over the glans both when flaccid and erect. If you can retract it easily when not erect but face difficulties when erect, this may indicate that the foreskin is not sufficiently elastic or that there is some tightness.
2. Symptoms: The symptoms you describe, such as pain when trying to retract the foreskin during an erection, are significant. Pain is a key indicator that there may be a problem that needs addressing. Additionally, if the foreskin is causing discomfort or interfering with sexual activity, it may warrant treatment.
3. Potential Complications: If left untreated, phimosis can lead to complications such as recurrent infections, inflammation (balanitis), or scarring. In some cases, it can also lead to painful erections or difficulties during sexual intercourse.
Treatment Options
1. Conservative Management:
- Topical Steroids: Some doctors recommend the use of topical corticosteroids to help soften and stretch the foreskin. This can be effective in mild cases of phimosis and may allow for easier retraction over time.
- Gentle Stretching Exercises: Gradual stretching of the foreskin can sometimes help improve elasticity. This should be done gently and without causing pain.
2. Surgical Options:
- Circumcision: This is the most definitive treatment for phimosis. It involves the surgical removal of the foreskin and is usually recommended if conservative measures fail or if there are recurrent infections or significant discomfort.
- Preputioplasty: This is a less invasive surgical option that involves making a small incision in the foreskin to widen it without removing it entirely. This can be a good option for those who wish to retain their foreskin but still need relief from tightness.
3. Consultation with a Specialist: It is essential to consult a urologist or a healthcare provider specializing in male genital health. They can provide a thorough examination and discuss the best treatment options tailored to your specific situation.
Conclusion
In summary, while your condition may not be severe, the discomfort and difficulty you experience during erections are valid concerns that should be addressed. Conservative treatments may be effective, but if they do not provide relief, surgical options like circumcision or preputioplasty can be considered. It is crucial to have an open discussion with a healthcare professional who can guide you through the options and help you make an informed decision based on your preferences and health needs.
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