Foreskin Care: Pain, Hygiene, and Treatment Options

Q: Foreskin Care: Pain, Hygiene, and Treatment Options

Hello： 1. <br>If you continue to experience this condition despite daily cleaning, drying, and repositioning, surgery may be necessary. <br>2. <br>After daily cleaning, drying, and repositioning, if it remains very wet after urination, you should also dry it thoroughly. <br>Avoid

Cleaning the foreskin and glans (genital area)

Hello, doctor.
I would like to ask:
1.
The foreskin retracts automatically during an erection, but I feel a slight sting during the retraction process (it seems not to happen in summer).
When not erect, I can retract it manually, but it feels very tight against the glans (like peeling off the protective film from a new screen).
When fully erect, the foreskin feels very tight near the corona.
Is there a need for a circumcision?
2.
I usually keep the glans covered by the foreskin, but recently, for about a year, I have noticed that there is almost a layer of smegma on the foreskin and glans after daily showers, possibly due to environmental or lifestyle changes.
What should I do if rinsing with water or gently rubbing does not completely remove the smegma? Would exposing the glans regularly help improve the smegma situation?
3.
I have seen other doctors recommend applying petroleum jelly after showering.
Should it be in ointment form or lotion? Can a water-based lubricant used during intimate contact be a substitute? Should it be applied to both the foreskin and glans while keeping the glans exposed, or should it be applied to the glans and then cover it with the foreskin? Thank you, doctor.

Niming, 30~39 year old female. Ask Date: 2023/03/21

Dr. Jian Weihong reply Urology

Hello: 1.
If you continue to experience this condition despite daily cleaning, drying, and repositioning, surgery may be necessary.
2.
After daily cleaning, drying, and repositioning, if it remains very wet after urination, you should also dry it thoroughly.
Avoid using soap or body wash for now.
3.
Personally, I do not recommend using petroleum jelly or lotion.
Just keep the area dry and reposition it.
If there is any redness, you should seek medical attention.
Wishing you good health.

Reply Date: 2023/03/21

More Info

Understanding foreskin care is essential for maintaining genital hygiene and preventing discomfort or complications. Your questions touch on several important aspects of foreskin management, including pain during retraction, hygiene practices, and the use of topical products. Let’s address each of your concerns in detail.

1. Pain During Foreskin Retraction: The sensation of tightness or pain during the retraction of the foreskin, especially when erect, can be indicative of a condition known as phimosis. Phimosis occurs when the foreskin cannot be easily retracted over the glans (the head of the penis). If you experience discomfort or pain during this process, it may be worth consulting a urologist. They can assess whether your condition is a simple anatomical variation or if it requires intervention, such as a circumcision. In some cases, conservative treatments like topical corticosteroids can help loosen the foreskin, but surgical options may be necessary if the condition is severe.

2. Dealing with Smegma (Foreskin Smegma): Smegma is a natural substance that can accumulate under the foreskin, consisting of dead skin cells, oils, and moisture. If you find that washing with water alone is insufficient to remove smegma, consider using a mild soap during your hygiene routine. It’s important to avoid harsh soaps or products that can irritate the sensitive skin of the glans. Keeping the area dry and clean is crucial. Exposing the glans by retracting the foreskin during washing can help reduce smegma buildup. However, if you experience discomfort when retracting the foreskin, it’s advisable to do so gently and not forcefully.

3. Use of Topical Products: Applying a lubricant like petroleum jelly (Vaseline) after bathing can help keep the area moisturized and may reduce friction. However, it’s important to note that while petroleum jelly can be beneficial, it should not be used as a substitute for proper hygiene. Water-based lubricants are typically safe for intimate contact, but they serve a different purpose than moisturizing agents. If you choose to use a lubricant, apply it to the glans and the inner foreskin, ensuring that it does not interfere with your hygiene practices. Keeping the glans exposed can help prevent moisture buildup and reduce smegma formation.

In summary, if you are experiencing pain or discomfort during foreskin retraction, it is advisable to seek medical advice to determine if surgical intervention is necessary. Maintaining proper hygiene by washing with mild soap and water, and considering the use of lubricants can help manage smegma and improve comfort. If you have ongoing concerns or if symptoms persist, consulting with a healthcare professional is the best course of action. They can provide personalized recommendations based on your specific situation.

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