Phimosis: When to Seek Help for Proper Hygiene

Regarding the cleaning of the glans penis?

I am 15 years old...
I used to think that during puberty, the glans would naturally emerge from the foreskin, so I didn't pay much attention to this issue.
However, it feels like it's been too long, so after reading many of your responses, I realized that I might have phimosis...
Will the foreskin stretch as the penis grows? If so, when I reach adulthood and my penis has fully developed, will it naturally become erect and the glans will come out? Right now, I am hesitant to clean my glans because when I shower and I'm not erect, pulling back the foreskin just reveals a tiny bit of the glans (really just a little...) and it feels tight and painful...
So??? Should I forcibly pull down the foreskin to clean the glans?? Or should I go see a doctor to have them check it out?? Or help me clean it?? Or is surgery necessary?? I'm really confused right now...

Yangyang, 10~19 year old female. Ask Date: 2005/04/14

Dr. Liu Jianting reply Urology

It seems to be normal, but seeing is believing.
Please consult a urologist for an in-person examination.

Reply Date: 2005/04/14

More Info

Phimosis is a condition where the foreskin cannot be easily retracted over the glans (the head of the penis). It is common in young boys and often resolves naturally as they grow older. However, in some cases, it can persist into adolescence and adulthood, leading to concerns about hygiene and potential complications.

At 15 years old, it's understandable to have questions about phimosis and its implications for hygiene and health. First, it's important to note that while many boys experience some degree of phimosis during childhood, most will find that their foreskin becomes more retractable as they reach puberty and their penis grows. However, if you are experiencing tightness and pain when attempting to retract the foreskin, it may be a sign that you should seek medical advice.

Regarding hygiene, it is crucial to maintain cleanliness in the genital area. If you are unable to retract the foreskin comfortably, it can make cleaning difficult, which may lead to the accumulation of smegma (a combination of dead skin cells and oils) under the foreskin. This can increase the risk of infections or inflammation, such as balanitis (inflammation of the glans) or posthitis (inflammation of the foreskin).
You mentioned that you feel pain when trying to pull back the foreskin. This discomfort is a common symptom of phimosis and indicates that you should not force the foreskin back, as this can cause injury or further complications. Instead, it is advisable to consult a healthcare professional, such as a urologist, who can assess your condition and provide guidance tailored to your situation.

In many cases, doctors recommend gentle stretching exercises for the foreskin, which can help increase its elasticity over time. However, if the phimosis is severe or causing significant issues, surgical options such as circumcision or preputioplasty (a less invasive procedure that widens the opening of the foreskin) may be considered. These procedures can alleviate the symptoms and improve hygiene.

It is also important to address any concerns you have about hygiene. If you are unable to retract the foreskin, you can still clean the area gently by washing the external parts of the penis with mild soap and water. Avoid using harsh soaps or scrubbing the area aggressively, as this can cause irritation.

In summary, while many boys experience phimosis during their development, if you are experiencing pain or difficulty with hygiene, it is best to seek medical advice. A healthcare professional can provide a thorough evaluation and recommend appropriate treatment options. Remember, it is essential to prioritize your health and well-being, and seeking help is a positive step in managing your concerns.

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