Pseudo Phimosis: Causes, Treatments, and Care Tips

Q: Pseudo Phimosis: Causes, Treatments, and Care Tips

Hello： The following information is for reference only and cannot replace a physician'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.

Pseudophimosis

I consider myself to have a condition similar to phimosis.
Although my foreskin completely covers the glans when erect, I can retract it without any issues.
I have never sought medical attention for problems related to my foreskin or glans.
However, this year I have started to experience minor injuries after masturbation, such as small cuts or longitudinal裂傷 around the tip of the foreskin.
Because of this, I often have to take breaks from masturbation until my 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 quite recall the exact diagnosis; I remember he mentioned that it might 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 ended up using the ointment for about a month.
After a month, I experienced some cuts after masturbation that became infected, leading to a more severe condition.
I was treated with a week of antibiotics and applied povidone-iodine until I recovered.
Since that incident, I feel that my foreskin has become more prone to inflammation or injury.
I'm unsure if the prolonged use of steroids 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 only receive topical ointments or antibiotics from my doctor.
The doctor also mentioned that the length of my foreskin does not warrant a circumcision.
Now, I'm conflicted about whether I will eventually need a circumcision if this condition persists.
Are there any care methods that could help prevent my foreskin from being easily injured? If I do undergo circumcision, can the foreskin be left a bit longer? The last time I saw the doctor, he mentioned that perhaps removing about 1 cm would suffice to address the problematic area at the tip.
I would prefer to have only a small amount removed, especially since I do not currently have a sexual partner and primarily rely on masturbation to meet my physiological needs.
However, I've heard from some people that after circumcision, masturbation can become more complicated, requiring the use of lubricant, and that the loss of nerve endings in the foreskin can affect sensitivity.
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: 2021/12/07

Dr. Du Shixi reply Urology

Hello: The following information is for reference only and cannot replace a physician'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 getting injured again? --> Maintaining cleanliness and dryness is important.
If there is a family history of diabetes, it may be advisable to check blood sugar levels.
It is also recommended 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 physician.
The doctor you saw last time mentioned that it might be possible to remove about 1 cm, just enough to excise the problematic area.
Personally, I would prefer to have only a small amount removed, especially 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; proper skin care should suffice.
Poor skin care could lead to complications with the surgical wound post-operation.
Wishing you good health.

Reply Date: 2021/12/07

More Info

Understanding pseudo-phimosis is crucial for individuals experiencing discomfort or complications related to the condition. Pseudo-phimosis refers to a situation where the foreskin can retract but may cause pain or injury, particularly during sexual activity or masturbation. This condition can lead to inflammation, tearing, or other complications if not managed properly.

Causes of Pseudo-Phimosis
The primary cause of pseudo-phimosis is often related to irritation or inflammation of the foreskin. This can occur due to:
1. Excessive Friction: Engaging in prolonged masturbation or sexual activity can lead to irritation and micro-tears in the foreskin, especially if lubrication is insufficient.

2. Infections: Bacterial or fungal infections can cause inflammation, making the foreskin more susceptible to injury. Symptoms may include redness, swelling, and discharge.

3. Skin Conditions: Conditions such as eczema or psoriasis can affect the skin of the penis, leading to sensitivity and increased risk of tearing.

4. Poor Hygiene: Inadequate cleaning can lead to the accumulation of smegma, which may irritate the foreskin and glans.

Treatment Options
1. Topical Treatments: As you've experienced, corticosteroid creams like the one prescribed can help reduce inflammation and allow for easier retraction of the foreskin. However, long-term use should be monitored due to the risk of skin thinning.

2. Antibiotics: If there is an infection, a course of antibiotics may be necessary to clear it up.

3. Proper Hygiene: Maintaining good hygiene is essential. Regular cleaning with mild soap and water can help prevent irritation and infection.

4. Lubrication: Using a water-based lubricant during masturbation can reduce friction and minimize the risk of tearing.

5. Surgical Options: If conservative treatments fail and the condition persists, circumcision or a partial circumcision may be recommended. This can alleviate the problem by removing the sensitive tissue that is prone to injury.

Care Tips
- Gentle Handling: Be gentle when retracting the foreskin, especially if you notice any pain or discomfort.

- Avoid Prolonged Friction: Limit the duration of masturbation sessions to prevent irritation. If you notice any signs of discomfort, take a break.

- Monitor Symptoms: Keep an eye on any changes in your condition. If you notice increased pain, swelling, or discharge, consult a healthcare provider.

- Consult a Specialist: If the problem persists or worsens, consider seeing a urologist who specializes in male genital health. They can provide tailored advice and treatment options.

Surgical Considerations
If you decide to pursue circumcision, discuss your preferences with your urologist. Many surgeons can perform a partial circumcision, leaving some foreskin intact while removing the problematic areas. This approach can help maintain some sensitivity and may alleviate concerns about changes in sexual pleasure.

Conclusion
It's understandable to feel conflicted about the potential need for surgery, especially when considering the impact on your sexual health and pleasure. However, addressing the underlying issues is crucial for long-term comfort and well-being. Engaging in open discussions with your healthcare provider can help you make informed decisions about your treatment options and ensure that your concerns are adequately addressed. Remember, prioritizing your health and comfort is essential, and there are various strategies to manage pseudo-phimosis effectively.

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