Can the Foreskin Be Retracted Behind the Coronal Ridge? - Urology

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Can the foreskin still retract behind the coronal sulcus?


I am currently 18 years old, and I recently realized that I have never retracted my foreskin behind the coronal ridge.
Even during masturbation, I haven't done this.
I researched online and found that some people say it loosens on its own during puberty, while others say it needs to be gradually retracted.
I tried it today and could barely see a little bit of my glans, but I don't have the determination to fully retract it because it feels a bit tight since I've never tried before.
There is a slight pain during the process, but it's not too uncomfortable.
I started to wonder if this is what phimosis means, so I wanted to ask if there is still a possibility for my foreskin to retract behind the coronal ridge.
Are there any methods to help with this?

Niming, 10~19 year old female. Ask Date: 2020/07/03

Dr. Du Shixi reply Urology


Hello: Based on your situation, it is recommended to first seek an evaluation from a urologist at the hospital.
It is possible for the condition to resolve, but some individuals may not experience improvement and may develop swelling, which would require an emergency visit.
Generally, a gradual approach is advised, but those who experience tearing or fear of pain may need to seek medical attention.
Surgery is also an option.
Wishing you good health.

Reply Date: 2020/07/03

More Info


It's great that you're taking the time to understand your body and address your concerns about the foreskin and its retraction. The ability to retract the foreskin behind the coronal ridge (the rim of the glans) can vary significantly among individuals, especially during adolescence.
At 18 years old, many males have already experienced some degree of foreskin retraction, but it's not uncommon for some to still have a tight foreskin, a condition known as phimosis. Phimosis is when the foreskin cannot be easily retracted over the glans, and it can be either physiological (normal in young boys) or pathological (due to scarring or other issues).
In your case, if you are experiencing tightness and some discomfort when attempting to retract the foreskin, it may indicate that you have a mild form of phimosis. The fact that you can see a bit of the glans suggests that there is some potential for retraction, but it may require gradual stretching to achieve full retraction without discomfort.

Here are some methods that may help you with foreskin retraction:
1. Gentle Stretching: Over time, you can try gently pulling back the foreskin during bathing or while in a comfortable setting. It's essential to be gentle and not force it, as this can lead to pain or injury.

2. Warm Water Soaks: Soaking in warm water can help relax the skin and may make it easier to retract the foreskin. This can be done during a bath or shower.

3. Topical Steroid Creams: In some cases, a healthcare provider may prescribe a topical steroid cream to help soften the skin and facilitate easier retraction. This should only be done under medical supervision.

4. Consult a Healthcare Provider: If you continue to experience tightness or discomfort, it would be wise to consult a urologist or healthcare provider. They can assess your situation and provide tailored advice or treatment options, which may include more advanced interventions if necessary.

It's important to note that while some discomfort during retraction attempts can be normal, significant pain is not. If you experience severe pain, bleeding, or signs of infection, you should seek medical attention promptly.

In summary, while it is possible for the foreskin to be retracted behind the coronal ridge, the ease of doing so varies from person to person. Gentle stretching and warm water soaks can help, but if you have concerns or experience pain, consulting a healthcare professional is the best course of action. They can provide you with the most appropriate advice and treatment options based on your specific situation.

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