Do I Need Circumcision If I Keep My Foreskin Clean?

Is circumcision still necessary?

My foreskin is a bit long, but I maintain regular cleaning.
Do I still need a circumcision?

lili, 10~19 year old female. Ask Date: 2001/03/09

Dr. Liu Jianting reply Urology

Your hygiene habits are good; do you want to consider circumcision? It's generally advisable to wait until puberty is complete, around the time of high school graduation, before making a decision.
Typically, if the foreskin can retract during an erection without any tightness, it is fine to leave it as is.
If you want more clarity, consult a urologist.

Reply Date: 2001/03/09

More Info

When it comes to the question of whether circumcision is necessary if you maintain good hygiene with your foreskin, the answer is not straightforward and depends on several factors.
First, it's important to understand what circumcision is. Circumcision is a surgical procedure that involves the removal of the foreskin, which is the fold of skin that covers the glans (the head) of the penis. This procedure is often performed for various reasons, including religious beliefs, cultural practices, and medical necessity.

In your case, if you are keeping your foreskin clean and are not experiencing any issues such as recurrent infections, inflammation, or other complications, circumcision may not be necessary. Maintaining proper hygiene is crucial for preventing infections and other problems associated with an intact foreskin. This includes regularly washing the area under the foreskin with mild soap and water to remove smegma, which is a buildup of dead skin cells and oils that can accumulate if not cleaned properly.

However, there are certain medical conditions where circumcision might be recommended, even if you practice good hygiene. These conditions include:
1. Phimosis: This is a condition where the foreskin cannot be easily retracted over the glans. If you experience pain or difficulty retracting the foreskin, circumcision may be advised.

2. Recurrent infections: If you have a history of recurrent urinary tract infections or balanitis (inflammation of the glans), circumcision may help reduce the risk of these conditions.

3. Paraphimosis: This is a condition where the retracted foreskin cannot be returned to its normal position, leading to swelling and pain. This is a medical emergency and may require circumcision.

4. Personal preference: Some individuals choose circumcision for personal, cultural, or aesthetic reasons, regardless of hygiene practices.

If you are unsure about your situation, it is advisable to consult with a healthcare professional, such as a urologist. They can assess your specific circumstances, including the length of your foreskin, your hygiene practices, and any symptoms you may be experiencing. They can provide personalized advice on whether circumcision is necessary or if you can continue to maintain your current hygiene routine without any issues.

In summary, if you keep your foreskin clean and are not experiencing any complications, circumcision may not be necessary. However, if you have concerns about your foreskin or experience any symptoms, it is best to seek medical advice to ensure your health and well-being. Regular check-ups with a healthcare provider can help monitor any changes and address any potential issues early on.

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