There are white spots on the foreskin?
Hello, I didn't know I needed to retract the foreskin for cleaning when I was younger, and it wasn't until college that I learned about it.
I hadn't paid attention before, but recently I've noticed many small white spots on the foreskin.
After reading some articles, it seems they might be caused by smegma.
Dr.
Hsu, how can I clean these small white spots myself?
A-Dai, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2006/02/17
Dr. Xu Weikai reply Urology
Hello, may I ask if these small spots are related to the skin? Are they flat or raised? Please provide details about their location and size.
Many things appear white and need to be distinguished.
Response from Dr.
Hsu Wei-kai, Director of the Urology Department, Taitung Hospital, Ministry of Health and Welfare.
Reply Date: 2006/02/17
More Info
When it comes to cleaning white spots on the foreskin, it’s important to approach the situation with care and understanding of the anatomy and physiology involved. The white spots you are observing could be sebaceous glands, which are normal and produce natural oils. However, if you are concerned about them or if they have changed in appearance, it’s wise to consult a healthcare professional.
Cleaning the Foreskin
1. Gentle Cleaning: The first step is to ensure that you are cleaning the area gently. Use warm water and a mild, unscented soap. Avoid using harsh soaps or scrubbing vigorously, as this can irritate the sensitive skin of the penis and foreskin.
2. Retracting the Foreskin: If you are uncircumcised, it is essential to retract the foreskin gently to clean underneath it. This area can accumulate smegma, a combination of dead skin cells and oils, which can appear as white spots. Make sure to do this gently to avoid any discomfort or injury.
3. Avoid Over-Cleaning: It’s crucial to strike a balance. Over-cleaning can lead to irritation and may cause the skin to become inflamed or sensitive. The natural oils produced by the skin are important for maintaining its health, so excessive washing can disrupt this balance.
4. Drying: After cleaning, gently pat the area dry with a clean towel. Avoid rubbing, as this can cause irritation.
When to Seek Medical Advice
If the white spots persist, change in appearance, or are accompanied by other symptoms such as itching, burning, or unusual discharge, it is essential to seek medical advice. A healthcare provider can evaluate the condition and determine if it is a normal anatomical variation or if it requires treatment.
Potential Treatments
1. Topical Treatments: If the white spots are due to a condition such as a fungal infection or irritation, a healthcare provider may recommend a topical antifungal or steroid cream. However, this should only be done under medical supervision.
2. Avoid Irritants: If you notice that certain soaps, lotions, or other products cause irritation, it’s best to avoid them. Stick to gentle, hypoallergenic products.
3. Regular Check-ups: Regular visits to a urologist can help monitor any changes in your genital health and provide peace of mind.
Conclusion
In summary, cleaning the foreskin and managing white spots requires a gentle approach. Use warm water and mild soap, avoid over-cleaning, and always dry the area gently. If you have concerns about the appearance of white spots or if they are associated with discomfort, it’s best to consult a healthcare professional for a thorough evaluation and appropriate management. Remember, maintaining good hygiene is important, but it should be balanced with the natural processes of the body to ensure optimal health.
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