Should You Consider Circumcision? Foreskin and Penis Development

Q: Should You Consider Circumcision? Foreskin and Penis Development

Hello： Whether or not to undergo circumcision is not determined by whether the glans is fully exposed, but rather by recurrent balanitis or if the foreskin balloons during urination, causing difficulty in urination. <br>In such cases, circumcision may be necessary. <br>In other s

Prepuce or clitoral hood

Hello Dr.
Lai: I would like to ask about two issues related to males.
I am 19 years old, and my penis measures about 12-13 cm when erect.
The foreskin still covers the glans, and I have to pull it back manually for the glans to be fully exposed.
Should I consider circumcision? Additionally, my scrotum appears very small and seems to have not developed at all.
Previously, in health education at school, it was mentioned that during male puberty, the scrotum would expand (but I don't feel that mine has).
I am unsure if these issues indicate a problem or if they are just a sign that I have not fully developed at 19 years old, and therefore, I shouldn't be worried.
Could you please help me with these questions? Thank you.

Xiao Chen, 10~19 year old female. Ask Date: 2006/06/09

Dr. Lai Ronghao reply Urology

Hello: Whether or not to undergo circumcision is not determined by whether the glans is fully exposed, but rather by recurrent balanitis or if the foreskin balloons during urination, causing difficulty in urination.
In such cases, circumcision may be necessary.
In other situations, it depends on personal preference, and surgery is not required as long as it does not affect daily life.
The development of the scrotum is not as important; what matters is the development of the testes and penis.
Based on your description, your length seems to be normal, and the average length of the testes is typically 3-4 cm, which is considered normal.
If you have any further concerns about your body, I recommend visiting a urology clinic for a more thorough examination, as some symptoms require a physician's direct assessment to provide accurate diagnosis and advice.
Thank you!

Reply Date: 2006/06/09

More Info

When considering circumcision, particularly in the context of your concerns about foreskin and penile development, it's essential to understand both the physiological aspects and the potential implications of the procedure.
Firstly, it’s important to clarify that the presence of foreskin is entirely normal and common among males. The foreskin, or prepuce, is a fold of skin that covers the glans (tip) of the penis. In many cases, the foreskin naturally retracts as a male matures, but this process can vary significantly from person to person. At 19 years old, if you find that your foreskin does not retract easily and requires manual assistance, this condition is known as phimosis. Phimosis can be physiological (normal in younger boys) or pathological (where it persists into adulthood and may cause issues).

In terms of whether you should consider circumcision, it largely depends on whether you are experiencing any problems related to your foreskin. If the inability to retract the foreskin is causing pain, recurrent infections, or difficulties with hygiene, circumcision may be recommended. However, if you are not experiencing any discomfort or complications, many healthcare providers may suggest that circumcision is not necessary.

Regarding your concern about the size of your penis and the appearance of your scrotum, it’s important to note that there is a wide range of normal when it comes to penis size and development. The average erect penis size is typically around 5 to 6 inches (12.7 to 15.24 cm), but many factors, including genetics and hormonal influences, can affect development. If you feel that your penis appears smaller than average or that your scrotum has not developed as expected, it may be beneficial to consult with a healthcare provider. They can assess whether your development is within the normal range or if there are underlying concerns that need to be addressed.

It’s also worth mentioning that the male body continues to develop into the early twenties, so it’s possible that you may still experience changes. If you have concerns about your development or if you feel that your penis or scrotum is not developing normally, a visit to a urologist or an endocrinologist could provide you with more personalized insights and reassurance.

In summary, whether to consider circumcision should be based on your personal health, comfort, and any issues you may be experiencing with your foreskin. If you are not having any problems, circumcision may not be necessary. As for your concerns about size and development, it’s always a good idea to consult with a healthcare professional who can provide guidance tailored to your specific situation. Remember, open communication with a doctor can help alleviate concerns and provide clarity on what is considered normal development.

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