Caring for Your Newborn's Penis: Do You Need to Clean the Foreskin?

The newborn's penis?

I have a question.
My baby is just 10 days old, and when bathing him, do I need to retract the foreskin to clean it? If it is necessary to clean it, how should I go about retracting it, since it seems a bit difficult?

TONY, 0~9 year old female. Ask Date: 2005/02/13

Dr. Lin Wenxian reply Pediatrics

Dear TONY,
Dr.
Lin Wen-Hsien, the Director of Pediatrics at Tainan Hospital, Department of Health, Executive Yuan, would like to inform you: It is not necessary to forcibly retract the foreskin during cleaning in newborns, as most newborns cannot be retracted (meaning the glans cannot be fully exposed).
Forcibly retracting it may lead to injury.
The exception is for newborns who have undergone circumcision.
The Pediatrics Department at Tainan Hospital wishes you and your baby good health and all the best!
Best regards.

Reply Date: 2005/02/13

More Info

When it comes to caring for your newborn's penis, particularly regarding the foreskin, it's important to understand that there are specific guidelines to follow to ensure both cleanliness and safety. For newborns, the foreskin is typically not fully retractable, and attempting to forcefully retract it can lead to injury or discomfort.
In the case of a 10-day-old baby, it is generally not necessary to clean under the foreskin. The natural process of hygiene will take care of itself as the baby grows. The foreskin is usually adhered to the glans (the head of the penis) in newborns, and this adhesion is normal. Forcing it back can cause pain and potentially lead to complications such as tearing or scarring. Therefore, it is best to avoid any attempts to retract the foreskin during cleaning.

Instead, during bath time, you can gently clean the external area of the penis with warm water. Use a soft washcloth or your hand to wipe the area gently. There is no need for soap, as it can irritate the sensitive skin. Just ensure that the area is clean and dry after bathing. As your child grows, the foreskin will gradually become more retractable on its own, and at that point, you can begin to teach them about proper hygiene practices.

It's also worth noting that if your baby has been circumcised, the care will differ slightly. In that case, you would follow the pediatrician's instructions regarding the care of the circumcision site, which typically involves keeping it clean and applying any recommended ointments.

In summary, for a newborn who is not circumcised, there is no need to clean under the foreskin. Just focus on gentle cleaning of the outer area with warm water. If you have any concerns about your baby's genital hygiene or if you notice any signs of irritation or infection, it is always best to consult your pediatrician for personalized advice and guidance. They can provide you with the most accurate information tailored to your child's specific needs.
Maintaining good hygiene practices is essential for preventing infections and ensuring your baby's overall health. As your child grows and develops, you can gradually introduce them to more comprehensive hygiene routines, including the proper care of their genital area. Always prioritize gentle care and consult with healthcare professionals when in doubt.

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