Childhood Phimosis: Symptoms, Care, and Treatment Options

Q: Childhood Phimosis: Symptoms, Care, and Treatment Options

Hello： I don't quite understand the meaning. <br>If there is scarring on the foreskin, could it lead to narrowing? In such a case, what should be done? Wishing you good health.

In childhood, due to a lack of understanding, I accidentally got wet after using a self-adhesive bandage?

As a child, I was unaware of the proper care for my foreskin, and as a result, I often got it wet.
This started around the age of seven or eight.
By the time I was about nine, my foreskin, which was originally tight, began to loosen.
Because of this loosening, whenever I urinated, if I didn't use a tissue to wipe away the urine, it would become red and irritated.
At that time, I was just a child and didn't know any better, so I frequently pulled on it, which often resulted in cuts.
Doctor, what should I do? Additionally, if I'm not used to it, I still haven't undergone circumcision, so the foreskin often covers the area when I urinate, and it has to pass through the foreskin.
What should I do now?

Hsiao Wei-Wen, 10~19 year old female. Ask Date: 2020/10/17

Dr. Du Shixi reply Urology

Hello: I don't quite understand the meaning.
If there is scarring on the foreskin, could it lead to narrowing? In such a case, what should be done? Wishing you good health.

Reply Date: 2020/10/17

More Info

Understanding childhood phimosis is essential for both parents and caregivers. Phimosis is a condition where the foreskin of the penis cannot be easily retracted over the glans (the head of the penis). This condition is common in infants and young children, and it often resolves on its own as the child grows. However, in some cases, it can lead to complications if not properly managed.

Symptoms of Phimosis
1. Difficulty Retracting the Foreskin: The most common symptom is the inability to pull back the foreskin. This can cause discomfort during urination or sexual activity as the child grows older.

2. Pain or Discomfort: Some children may experience pain or discomfort, especially during erections or when the area is irritated.

3. Redness or Swelling: If the foreskin is frequently irritated or injured, it may become red or swollen. This can happen if the child is trying to retract the foreskin forcefully.

4. Infection: In some cases, phimosis can lead to infections, which may present as discharge, foul odor, or persistent redness.

Care and Management
1. Gentle Hygiene: It is crucial to maintain proper hygiene. Parents should encourage their children to clean the area gently with warm water during baths. Avoid using harsh soaps or scrubbing the area, as this can cause irritation.

2. Avoid Forceful Retraction: Parents should not forcefully retract the foreskin, especially in younger children, as this can lead to pain and injury. Instead, allow the child to explore their body at their own pace.

3. Observation: In many cases, phimosis resolves naturally as the child grows. Regular check-ups with a pediatrician can help monitor the condition.

4. Consult a Pediatrician: If the child experiences pain, recurrent infections, or if the phimosis does not improve with time, it is essential to consult a pediatrician or a pediatric urologist. They can provide guidance on whether treatment is necessary.

Treatment Options
1. Topical Steroid Creams: In some cases, doctors may prescribe topical steroid creams to help loosen the foreskin. This treatment can be effective in making the foreskin more pliable and easier to retract.

2. Surgical Options: If conservative treatments fail and the child continues to experience problems, surgical options may be considered. These can include:
- Preputioplasty: A less invasive procedure that involves widening the opening of the foreskin without complete removal.

- Circumcision: The surgical removal of the foreskin. This is typically considered if there are recurrent infections or significant complications.

Conclusion
In your case, it sounds like you have experienced some discomfort and irritation due to the phimosis. It is important to approach this condition with care. Start by ensuring proper hygiene and avoiding any forceful retraction of the foreskin. If you notice persistent symptoms such as pain, redness, or difficulty urinating, it is advisable to seek medical advice. A healthcare professional can assess your situation and recommend the best course of action, whether it be conservative management or surgical intervention.

Remember, many children with phimosis do not require surgery and can manage the condition with proper care and monitoring. Open communication with a healthcare provider will help ensure that you receive the appropriate support and treatment options.

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