Phimosis and Penile Size Concerns: When to Seek Help

Q: Phimosis and Penile Size Concerns: When to Seek Help

Hello： Phimosis can be managed with proper hygiene, so there is no need to worry excessively. <br>However, based on your description, it seems that hygiene may not be sufficient, and you should be cautious about bacterial infections. <br>Currently, circumcision surgery at our hos

Phimosis? Short penis?

1.
When I am not erect, the foreskin covers the entire glans, and there are even some folds in the foreskin.
During an erection, if I don't manually retract it, only about one-third of the glans is exposed.
Although I can pull it back with my hand, it seems to be very tight and painful when I do so, and sometimes there is white discharge with an unusual odor.
Could this be due to the length of the foreskin? Is circumcision necessary in this case?
2.
If the answer to the above is affirmative, can this procedure be covered by health insurance? My family is not in a good financial situation and cannot afford excessive out-of-pocket expenses.
3.
I have read in common questions that the healing phase after circumcision can be very painful.
Will the pain be severe enough to prevent me from focusing?
4.
When measuring the length of the penis, does it usually refer to the shaft only, excluding the glans? I have seen information online suggesting that the average length of a Taiwanese male's penis is 13 cm.
If the measurement refers to the shaft excluding the glans, and mine is only 7 cm, is that considered too short? Should I consult a doctor regarding this concern about being too short?

aj, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2007/04/06

Dr. Lai Ronghao reply Urology

Hello: Phimosis can be managed with proper hygiene, so there is no need to worry excessively.
However, based on your description, it seems that hygiene may not be sufficient, and you should be cautious about bacterial infections.
Currently, circumcision surgery at our hospital is self-funded, with costs around 6,000 NTD, and the actual charges will depend on our hospital's pricing standards.

Reply Date: 2007/04/06

More Info

Phimosis is a condition where the foreskin cannot be easily retracted over the glans (head) of the penis. This condition can lead to various issues, including discomfort, hygiene problems, and potential complications such as infections. Based on your description, it seems that you are experiencing symptoms consistent with phimosis, particularly the inability to retract the foreskin fully, discomfort during erections, and the presence of white discharge and odor, which may indicate a buildup of smegma or an infection.

1. Symptoms and Treatment: The symptoms you describe—difficulty retracting the foreskin, pain during retraction, and odor—suggest that you may benefit from medical evaluation. In many cases, phimosis can be treated conservatively with topical steroid creams that help to loosen the foreskin. However, if these methods are ineffective, circumcision (surgical removal of the foreskin) may be recommended. The decision to proceed with circumcision should be made in consultation with a healthcare provider, who can assess the severity of your condition and discuss the potential benefits and risks.

2. Insurance Coverage: In terms of insurance coverage, many health insurance plans, including those in Taiwan, may cover circumcision if it is deemed medically necessary. Given your financial concerns, it would be advisable to discuss this with your healthcare provider or the hospital's billing department to understand what options are available to you under your insurance plan.

3. Post-Operative Pain: Regarding the pain associated with circumcision, it is common to experience discomfort during the healing process. However, the level of pain varies among individuals. Most patients are prescribed pain relief medications to help manage discomfort during the recovery period. While some discomfort is expected, it should not be so severe that it prevents you from focusing on daily activities. Your doctor will provide guidance on pain management strategies post-surgery.

4. Measuring Penile Size: When measuring penile length, it is typically measured from the pubic bone to the tip of the glans, excluding the foreskin. The average erect penile length varies by population, but the figure you mentioned (13 cm) is within the average range. If your measurement of 7 cm is in a flaccid state, it is important to note that size can vary significantly between individuals and can also change with arousal. If you have concerns about your size affecting your sexual function or self-esteem, discussing these concerns with a healthcare provider can provide reassurance and guidance.

In conclusion, it is advisable to seek medical advice regarding your symptoms of phimosis and any associated concerns. A healthcare professional can provide a thorough evaluation, discuss treatment options, and help you navigate any financial concerns related to your care. Remember, addressing these issues early can lead to better outcomes and improved quality of life.

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