Short Frenulum: Causes, Symptoms, and Treatment Options

Q: Short Frenulum: Causes, Symptoms, and Treatment Options

Hello： It is important to take good care of the foreskin. <br>Apply the ointment until it is completely healed (about 1-2 times a day). <br>Rinse with clean water regularly and remember to dry it thoroughly. <br>If there are any wounds, consider using povidone-iodine for disinfec

Prepuce issues

Hello, Doctor: My question is...
I originally did not have a phimosis issue; my glans was exposed when not erect.
However, the problem I encountered is that a few months ago, during oral sex with my female partner, she held the tip of my erect penis (the glans) and pushed my foreskin down with her hand.
It was somewhat uncomfortable during the process, but I completed ejaculation without thinking much of it.
I continued to engage in sexual activity, but one day I suddenly noticed that the tip of my penis had become wrinkled and bunched up.
I didn't pay much attention to it at the time, but recently I started to feel pain in my penis.
I noticed that when flaccid, the skin at the tip is all wrinkled and seems to lack elasticity, which may be causing tearing when I move.
When I look at it from the underside, I can see that there is no foreskin covering the glans, only the corona of the glans is visible.
Recently, I visited a urologist who said I had skin tearing and prescribed a topical ointment called Lidocaine to apply, suggesting it would improve.
However, after applying it for about 3-4 days, I still feel pain.
The redness has subsided, but the pain persists.
The doctor also emphasized that I have a short foreskin and cannot undergo a circumcision.
My question, Doctor, is whether there is hope for my penis? Can it regain its previous elasticity? I am very worried that the foreskin at the tip has already undergone necrosis.
If that is the case, what should I do?

Wang Xiaodai, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2018/09/18

Dr. Du Shixi reply Urology

Hello: It is important to take good care of the foreskin.
Apply the ointment until it is completely healed (about 1-2 times a day).
Rinse with clean water regularly and remember to dry it thoroughly.
If there are any wounds, consider using povidone-iodine for disinfection.
Wear loose-fitting underwear and avoid being wet after urinating.
If the condition does not improve (lasting more than a week), it may be necessary to check your blood sugar at a clinic (as poorly controlled blood sugar can hinder skin healing).
Based on my personal clinic experience, I have never encountered cases of foreskin necrosis if the foreskin is not trapped.
There is no need to worry.
Wishing you good health.

Reply Date: 2018/09/18

More Info

Understanding a short frenulum, also known as frenulum breve, is essential for addressing the concerns you've raised regarding your situation. The frenulum is a band of tissue located on the underside of the penis that connects the glans (the head of the penis) to the shaft. When this tissue is too short, it can lead to discomfort during erections or sexual activity, as well as potential tearing or pain, which seems to be what you are experiencing.

Causes of Short Frenulum
The primary cause of a short frenulum is congenital, meaning it is a condition you are born with. However, it can also be exacerbated by trauma or injury, such as the situation you described during oral sex. The forceful manipulation of the penis can lead to inflammation, scarring, or even tearing of the frenulum, which may result in pain and changes in the appearance of the skin.

Symptoms
Common symptoms of a short frenulum include:
- Pain or discomfort during erections or sexual activity.

- Difficulty retracting the skin of the penis fully.

- Tearing or bleeding during sexual activity.

- Changes in the appearance of the skin, such as wrinkling or a lack of elasticity.

In your case, the pain you are experiencing, along with the changes in the appearance of the skin, suggests that there may be some inflammation or damage to the frenulum or surrounding tissues.

Treatment Options
1. Topical Treatments: As your doctor has prescribed a topical ointment (臨德隆), it is essential to continue using it as directed. This medication can help reduce inflammation and promote healing. If you do not see improvement after a week or so, it is crucial to follow up with your healthcare provider.

2. Avoiding Irritation: During the healing process, it is advisable to avoid any activities that may irritate the area, such as vigorous sexual activity or excessive manipulation of the penis. Allowing time for the tissue to heal is vital.

3. Stretching Exercises: Some healthcare providers may recommend gentle stretching exercises for the frenulum to improve elasticity. However, these should only be done under the guidance of a medical professional to avoid further injury.

4. Surgical Options: In cases where the short frenulum causes significant pain or functional issues, a minor surgical procedure called frenuloplasty may be considered. This procedure involves lengthening the frenulum and can provide relief from symptoms. However, as your doctor mentioned, if there are concerns about the condition of the tissue, this option may need to be evaluated carefully.

5. Monitoring for Complications: It is essential to monitor for signs of infection or complications, such as persistent pain, swelling, or discharge. If you notice any of these symptoms, seek medical attention promptly.

Recovery and Prognosis
The prognosis for a short frenulum is generally good, especially with appropriate treatment. If the tissue is not severely damaged, it can often heal and regain some elasticity. However, if there is significant scarring or tissue damage, it may require more intensive treatment or surgical intervention.

In conclusion, while your current situation may be concerning, there are several avenues for treatment and recovery. It is crucial to maintain open communication with your healthcare provider and follow their recommendations closely. If you have ongoing concerns about the health of your penis or the effectiveness of the treatment, do not hesitate to seek a second opinion or further evaluation from a urologist. Your sexual health and comfort are important, and there are solutions available to help you regain normal function and alleviate pain.

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