Do You Really Need Circumcision for Recurrent Foreskin Injuries?

Q: Do You Really Need Circumcision for Recurrent Foreskin Injuries?

Hello： The following information is for reference only and cannot replace a doctor's examination, assessment, or testing. <br>However, I am currently a bit conflicted about whether a circumcision is necessary if this condition persists. <br>--> It is not necessarily required. <br

Is circumcision necessary if the foreskin is prone to tearing or injury?

I consider myself to have a condition similar to phimosis.
Although my foreskin completely covers the glans when erect, I can retract it fully without any issues.
I have never sought medical attention for problems related to my foreskin or glans.
However, this year, I have been experiencing small injuries after masturbation, including vertical fissures around the tip of the foreskin.
As a result, I often have to take breaks from masturbation until the foreskin fully heals.
My medical visits this year have been as follows: I first visited a urologist in June after a long masturbation session that lasted over half an hour.
Afterward, I felt some swelling in my foreskin, so I went to see the urologist.
The doctor prescribed me a topical steroid ointment, but I can't recall the exact diagnosis; I only remember the doctor mentioning that it could be due to excessive moisture and heat.
After two weeks of using the ointment, I returned for a follow-up, and the doctor prescribed the same ointment again.
At that time, I was unaware that steroids should not be used long-term, and I continued using the ointment for about a month.
After a month, I experienced some injuries and an infection following masturbation, which became more severe, requiring a week of antibiotics and topical antiseptic to recover.
Since that incident, I have noticed that my foreskin is more prone to inflammation and injuries.
I am unsure if the prolonged use of the steroid caused my skin to thin or if the inflammation made it more fragile.
This issue has been troubling me.
In recent months, whenever I have skin breaks or inflammation, I have only received ointments or antibiotics from my doctor.
The doctor has also mentioned that the length of my foreskin does not warrant circumcision.
Now, I am conflicted about whether I will need a circumcision if this condition persists.
Are there any care methods that can help prevent my foreskin from getting injured? If I do undergo circumcision, can I keep a bit of foreskin? The last time I saw the doctor, he mentioned that perhaps about 1 cm could be removed, excising the problematic part at the front.
I would prefer to have only a small amount removed, especially since I do not currently have a sexual partner and primarily address my physiological needs through masturbation.
However, I have heard from some people that after circumcision, masturbation can become more complicated, requiring the use of lubricants, and that the loss of sensitivity from the foreskin can make a difference.
I want to avoid impacting my ability to masturbate, as it is an important outlet for stress relief in my single life.

Thank you for taking the time to read this, and I appreciate your response.

Niming, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2021/12/06

Dr. Jian Weihong reply Urology

Hello: The following information is for reference only and cannot replace a doctor's examination, assessment, or testing.
However, I am currently a bit conflicted about whether a circumcision is necessary if this condition persists.
--> It is not necessarily required.
Are there any care methods to prevent the foreskin from being easily injured? --> Maintaining cleanliness and dryness is important.
If there is a family history of diabetes, it may be necessary to check blood sugar levels.
It is advisable to avoid masturbation until the wound has healed to prevent re-injury and scarring.
If circumcision is performed, can the foreskin be left a bit longer? --> You can discuss this with your doctor.
The last physician mentioned that it might be possible to remove about 1 cm, just enough to excise the problematic area.
Personally, I would prefer to remove only a little since I do not currently have a sexual partner and have been addressing my physiological needs through masturbation.
--> If it is only 1 cm, I personally feel that surgery may not be necessary; taking good care of the skin should suffice.
Poor skin care could lead to complications with the surgical wound afterward.
Wishing you good health.

Reply Date: 2021/12/06

More Info

When considering the need for circumcision due to recurrent foreskin injuries, it is essential to understand the underlying causes of these injuries and the potential benefits and drawbacks of the procedure. Your situation, where you experience recurrent injuries to the foreskin, particularly after masturbation, suggests that there may be a combination of factors at play, including skin sensitivity, inflammation, and possibly anatomical considerations.

Firstly, it is important to note that circumcision is often recommended for individuals who experience recurrent infections, inflammation, or injuries that do not respond well to conservative treatments. In your case, while you have been able to retract the foreskin without issues, the recurrent injuries and inflammation indicate that there may be an underlying problem that needs to be addressed. The use of topical steroids, such as the medication you mentioned, can sometimes lead to skin thinning, making the skin more susceptible to injury. This could explain why you are experiencing increased sensitivity and more frequent injuries.

In terms of treatment options, if conservative measures such as topical medications and proper hygiene do not alleviate the problem, circumcision may be considered. The procedure can help reduce the risk of future injuries by removing the part of the foreskin that is prone to tearing or inflammation. However, it is crucial to discuss the extent of the circumcision with your healthcare provider. As you mentioned, some surgeons may be willing to perform a partial circumcision, which could preserve some of the foreskin while still addressing the problematic areas.

Regarding your concerns about the impact of circumcision on sexual pleasure and masturbation, it is true that some individuals report changes in sensation after the procedure. The foreskin contains a significant number of nerve endings, and its removal can alter the experience of sexual activity. However, many individuals adapt to these changes over time, and some report that they find new ways to experience pleasure post-circumcision. Using lubricants during masturbation can also help mitigate any discomfort that may arise after the procedure.

In addition to considering circumcision, there are several self-care strategies you can implement to help protect the foreskin and reduce the likelihood of injuries. These include:
1. Gentle Hygiene: Ensure that you are cleaning the area gently and thoroughly without causing irritation. Avoid harsh soaps or products that may exacerbate sensitivity.

2. Moisturizing: Applying a gentle, fragrance-free moisturizer to the area may help maintain skin integrity and reduce dryness, which can lead to cracking.

3. Avoiding Excessive Friction: Be mindful of the duration and intensity of masturbation. Taking breaks and using adequate lubrication can help prevent injuries.

4. Monitoring Symptoms: Keep track of any changes in your symptoms and report them to your healthcare provider. If you notice increased frequency or severity of injuries, it may warrant further evaluation.

Ultimately, the decision to proceed with circumcision should be made in consultation with a qualified urologist or healthcare provider who can assess your specific situation and provide personalized recommendations. They can help weigh the benefits of the procedure against your concerns and preferences, ensuring that you make an informed choice that aligns with your health needs and lifestyle.

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