Do I Need Circumcision? Foreskin Issues at 22

Q: Do I Need Circumcision? Foreskin Issues at 22

Hello： If it does not affect hygiene and sexual activity, generally circumcision is not necessary. <br>However, please pay attention to cleanliness. <br>If you are very concerned or if it impacts your daily life, it is recommended that you visit a urology clinic for an evaluation

Circumcision

Hello Dr.
Lai, I would like to ask about my situation.
I am 22 years old and want to undergo circumcision, but my glans is not exposed in a flaccid state.
During an erection, I can only retract the foreskin by pulling it back with my hand, but as soon as I engage in thrusting, the foreskin returns to its original position.
Do I need to have a circumcision in this case? Also, after the circumcision, will the entire glans be exposed? Thank you.

Xiao P, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2006/09/29

Dr. Lai Ronghao reply Urology

Hello: If it does not affect hygiene and sexual activity, generally circumcision is not necessary.
However, please pay attention to cleanliness.
If you are very concerned or if it impacts your daily life, it is recommended that you visit a urology clinic for an evaluation to determine if surgery is needed.
Thank you!

Reply Date: 2006/09/29

More Info

Hello! Thank you for your question regarding circumcision and foreskin issues. It sounds like you are experiencing some concerns related to your foreskin and its ability to retract. Let's break down your situation and provide some insights.

From what you've described, it seems that you have a condition known as phimosis, which is when the foreskin cannot be easily retracted over the glans (the head of the penis). This can occur in some individuals and may lead to discomfort during sexual activity, hygiene issues, or other complications. In your case, it appears that the foreskin only retracts with manual assistance during an erection, and it returns to its original position during thrusting.

Do You Need Circumcision?
Whether or not you need circumcision depends on several factors:
1. Symptoms: If you are experiencing pain, discomfort, or recurrent infections due to the inability to retract the foreskin, circumcision may be recommended. It can help alleviate these issues and improve hygiene.

2. Hygiene: Difficulty in retracting the foreskin can lead to a buildup of smegma (a combination of dead skin cells and oils), which can cause irritation or infections. If you find it challenging to maintain proper hygiene, circumcision might be beneficial.

3. Sexual Function: If the inability to retract the foreskin is affecting your sexual experiences or causing anxiety, discussing circumcision with a healthcare provider could be a good option.

4. Personal Preference: Some individuals choose circumcision for cultural, religious, or personal reasons. If this is a significant factor for you, it should be considered in your decision-making process.

What Happens After Circumcision?
After circumcision, the glans will be exposed and will remain so. This can lead to some changes:
- Sensitivity: Initially, the glans may be more sensitive to touch since it is no longer protected by the foreskin. Over time, many individuals report that sensitivity decreases as the skin becomes accustomed to being exposed.

- Hygiene: With the glans exposed, maintaining hygiene can become easier, as there is less risk of smegma buildup.

- Aesthetic Changes: The appearance of the penis will change, as the foreskin will be removed. This is a personal choice and varies in acceptance among individuals.

Consultation with a Healthcare Provider
It is essential to consult with a urologist or a healthcare provider who specializes in male reproductive health. They can perform a thorough examination, discuss your symptoms, and help you weigh the pros and cons of circumcision based on your specific situation. They can also provide information on the procedure, recovery time, and any potential risks involved.

Conclusion
In summary, whether you need circumcision depends on your symptoms, hygiene concerns, and personal preferences. If you are experiencing discomfort or difficulties related to your foreskin, it is advisable to seek professional medical advice. A healthcare provider can guide you through your options and help you make an informed decision. Remember, it's essential to prioritize your health and comfort in this matter. Thank you for reaching out, and I hope this information helps you!

Similar Q&A

Understanding Foreskin Issues: Do You Need Circumcision?

Doctor, I would like to ask, my foreskin can only retract to the back of the glans and cannot retract further. Do I need a circumcision? (I was circumcised as a child.) Will this hinder future sexual intercourse? Thank you, doctor.

Dr. Li Xinyi reply Urology
If there are concerns about the foreskin, it is advisable to have an in-person examination. It is recommended to consult a urologist for evaluation and discussion with the physician.

Do I Need Circumcision? Understanding Foreskin Issues in Teens

As a 13-year-old, having a penis size of 13 cm when erect is within the normal range. If you are unable to retract the foreskin completely and can only expose the glans, this may indicate a condition known as phimosis. Whether or not you need a circumcision depends on several fac...

Dr. Lin Wenxu reply Urology
Dear ZCY, Please visit the urology outpatient clinic in person for a thorough examination by the physician, which will provide you with the most accurate diagnosis and recommendations. Dr. Lin Wen-Hsu, Urology Department, Nantou Hospital

Do You Really Need a Circumcision? Understanding Phimosis at 17

Is it necessary for everyone to undergo circumcision? I am seventeen and still have phimosis; what will happen if I don't get circumcised? Why do some people get circumcised as children while others do not? Who makes that decision?

Dr. Chen Zhihong reply Urology
1. Not everyone needs to undergo circumcision; typically, there are two conditions that warrant the procedure: one is complete phimosis (where the foreskin completely covers the glans and cannot be retracted even with manual manipulation), and the other is recurrent balanitis. ...

Understanding Foreskin Issues and Developmental Concerns in Young Adults

At 20 years old, the foreskin covers the glans when not erect, but it can be retracted freely when erect, although it feels a bit tight at the coronal sulcus. While masturbation provides some pleasure, you are considering a circumcision for easier hygiene. Is there a procedure fo...

Dr. Xu Weikai reply Urology
Anonymous: It's difficult to make a judgment without examining the actual condition of the foreskin. The decision on whether surgery is necessary can only be made after that assessment. You can discuss the surgical methods and the extent of the resection with your physician....