Should I Get Circumcised to Better Monitor STD Symptoms?

Q: Should I Get Circumcised to Better Monitor STD Symptoms?

Hello： 1) No need. <br>2) It is better to seek medical examination and testing; circumcision is not necessary. <br>Wishing you good health.

I have phimosis, but since I have engaged in high-risk sexual behavior, should I undergo circumcision before any symptoms of sexually transmitted infections appear (such as the chancre of syphilis) to better observe for any obvious symptoms?

Hello, doctor.
I am Yu, who asked questions yesterday and last week regarding oral sex with a sex worker for less than a minute, followed by wiping with a wet tissue.
I have a few questions about phimosis.
I have phimosis, and even when not erect, I can push the foreskin down to expose half of the glans (previously it was retracted when erect, but when not erect, I couldn't retract it even to expose one-sixth of the glans).
However, the coronal sulcus is still not exposed (I clean it daily), and when erect, I cannot pull it down to fully expose the glans (only about one-fifth is exposed), and pulling it further down feels tight and painful.

1.
Given that I have had risky sexual behavior, should I consider getting a circumcision before any symptoms of sexually transmitted infections (such as a hard chancre from syphilis) appear, to better observe for any obvious symptoms? I am worried about whether I should see a urologist before symptoms develop.

2.
Recently, to check if there are any growths on my penis, I have been frequently retracting the foreskin (which is difficult to do).
In the last two days, I have felt some pain (I'm not sure if it's the foreskin or the penis that hurts).
When I urinate, I don't feel a burning sensation at the urethral opening, but I do feel a bit of heat when urine comes into contact with the foreskin.
About 15 minutes after urinating, I feel a slight itchiness and dampness of the foreskin.
I thought there might be discharge, but upon inspection, I found nothing.
Is this a concern? Is circumcision necessary?

Yu, 10~19 year old female. Ask Date: 2018/04/16

Dr. Du Shixi reply Urology

Hello: 1) No need.
2) It is better to seek medical examination and testing; circumcision is not necessary.
Wishing you good health.

Reply Date: 2018/04/16

More Info

When considering whether to undergo circumcision for better monitoring of STD symptoms, it's essential to weigh the potential benefits against the risks and implications of the procedure. Circumcision, the surgical removal of the foreskin covering the glans of the penis, can indeed facilitate easier observation of the glans and any potential symptoms of sexually transmitted diseases (STDs). However, the decision should be made based on a comprehensive understanding of your specific situation and medical advice.

Understanding Your Situation
From your description, it appears you have phimosis, a condition where the foreskin cannot be fully retracted over the glans. This can complicate hygiene and may potentially lead to issues such as infections or inflammation. You mentioned engaging in a high-risk sexual encounter, which understandably raises concerns about STDs.

Monitoring STD Symptoms
1. Visibility of Symptoms: Circumcision may allow for easier inspection of the glans and the surrounding areas, making it simpler to identify any abnormalities such as sores, lesions, or unusual discharge that could indicate an STD. However, many STDs can present with symptoms that are not solely dependent on the visibility of the glans.

2. Hygiene: Improved hygiene is often cited as a benefit of circumcision. With the foreskin removed, it may be easier to keep the area clean, potentially reducing the risk of infections that could mimic or mask STD symptoms.

3. STD Risk: It's important to note that circumcision does not eliminate the risk of STDs. Safe sexual practices, including the use of condoms, are crucial in reducing the risk of transmission.

Pain and Discomfort
You mentioned experiencing pain when retracting the foreskin and some discomfort during urination. This could indicate inflammation or irritation, possibly due to friction or infection. If you are experiencing persistent pain, itching, or any unusual discharge, it is advisable to consult a urologist or healthcare provider. They can assess your symptoms, provide a proper diagnosis, and recommend appropriate treatment, which may or may not include circumcision.

When to Seek Medical Advice
1. Before Symptoms Appear: If you are concerned about potential STD symptoms, it is prudent to seek medical advice even before any symptoms manifest. A healthcare provider can offer guidance on testing for STDs and discuss the potential need for circumcision based on your individual risk factors and health status.

2. Current Symptoms: Given your current symptoms of pain and discomfort, it is essential to see a healthcare provider. They can perform a physical examination and may recommend tests to rule out infections or other conditions.

Conclusion
In summary, while circumcision may offer some benefits in terms of monitoring for STD symptoms and improving hygiene, it is not a definitive solution for preventing STDs. The decision to undergo circumcision should be made in consultation with a healthcare provider who can evaluate your specific circumstances, including your sexual health history and current symptoms. It is crucial to address any discomfort or pain you are experiencing and to engage in safe sexual practices to protect against STDs.

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