Proper Hygiene and Concerns About Foreskin Issues

Q: Proper Hygiene and Concerns About Foreskin Issues

Hello：<br>Q1. <br>Regarding the correct frequency of retracting the foreskin for cleaning, you replied： "1-2 times a day." Dr. <br>Du, if one cleans the glans more than 1-2 times a day (i.e., excessive cleaning), could this potentially harm it? -- Excessive cleaning beyond 1-2 ti

Follow-up inquiry #187389 Consultation?

Dear Dr.
Du,
Thank you very much for your response to the inquiry in "#187389".
I would like to ask you a few more questions:
Q1.
Regarding the correct frequency of retracting the foreskin for cleaning, you mentioned: "1-2 times a day." If one were to exceed this frequency (i.e., excessive cleaning), could it potentially harm the glans?
Q2.
Concerning the small indentation on the "right side" where my frenulum connects to the glans, you advised: "Please seek medical attention, as it may be adhesions." Could you please explain what adhesions mean in this context?
Q3.
Following up on the previous question, if the small indentation on the "right side" where my frenulum connects to the glans is caused by a tear from penile erection and masturbation, will this type of wound heal on its own over time, or is it necessary to seek medical attention for suturing?
Thank you, Dr.
Du.

Axiang, 40~49 year old female. Ask Date: 2022/10/09

Dr. Du Shixi reply Urology

Hello:
Q1.
Regarding the correct frequency of retracting the foreskin for cleaning, you replied: "1-2 times a day." Dr.
Du, if one cleans the glans more than 1-2 times a day (i.e., excessive cleaning), could this potentially harm it? -- Excessive cleaning beyond 1-2 times a day is acceptable as long as it is not done with excessive force, and cleanliness and dryness are maintained.
Q2.
Concerning the small indentation on the "right side" where the frenulum connects to the glans, you replied: "Please seek medical attention; it may be adhesions." Dr.
Du, what does "adhesions" mean? -- It means that the foreskin and the glans are not separated.
Sometimes, such situations can occur.
Q3.
Following up on the previous question, if there is a small indentation on the "right side" where the frenulum connects to the glans, and its cause is a tear from penile erection or masturbation, Dr.
Du, will this type of wound heal on its own over time, or is medical intervention necessary for suturing? -- If it is indeed an injury, you should be able to see signs of injury such as skin breakage or bleeding at the time of occurrence.
If it is a true injury, it should heal over several days, and most cases do not require suturing; observation is advisable, but if you have concerns, seeking medical attention is recommended.
Wishing you good health.

Reply Date: 2022/10/09

More Info

Dear Patient,
Thank you for your thoughtful questions regarding proper hygiene and concerns about foreskin issues. I appreciate your proactive approach to understanding these matters, as they are essential for maintaining genital health.

Q1: Frequency of Cleaning Under the Foreskin
You asked about the correct frequency for retracting the foreskin to clean the glans (the head of the penis). While I previously mentioned that cleaning should be done once or twice daily, it is crucial to note that excessive cleaning can indeed lead to irritation or damage. Over-cleaning can strip away natural oils and disrupt the delicate balance of bacteria on the skin, potentially leading to conditions such as balanitis (inflammation of the glans) or other irritative dermatitis. Therefore, it is advisable to clean gently and not to overdo it. If you feel discomfort or notice any irritation, it may be a sign to reduce the frequency of cleaning.

Q2: Understanding Adhesions
Regarding the small indentation on the right side of your frenulum (the band of tissue connecting the foreskin to the glans), I mentioned that it could be a sign of adhesion. Adhesions occur when the foreskin is stuck to the glans, which can happen in some individuals, especially if the foreskin has not been fully retracted during development. This condition can lead to discomfort, difficulty in retracting the foreskin, or even pain during erections or sexual activity. It is essential to have this evaluated by a healthcare professional to determine the best course of action.

Q3: Healing of the Indentation
You also inquired about the small indentation resulting from pulling or stretching during erection or masturbation. If this indentation is superficial and not causing significant pain or bleeding, it may heal on its own over time. The skin on the penis is quite resilient, and minor abrasions often resolve without intervention. However, if the indentation appears deep, is accompanied by persistent pain, or shows signs of infection (such as redness, swelling, or discharge), it is crucial to seek medical attention. In some cases, if the injury is severe or does not heal properly, a healthcare provider may recommend a procedure to ensure proper healing, which could include suturing.

In summary, maintaining proper hygiene is vital, but it should be balanced to avoid irritation. Any unusual findings, such as indentations or adhesions, warrant a professional evaluation to ensure that they do not lead to further complications. If you have any more questions or concerns, please do not hesitate to reach out.

Best regards,
Dr. Du

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