Phimosis: Do You Need Circumcision for Relief?

Q: Phimosis: Do You Need Circumcision for Relief?

Mr. <br>Lin： Hello, I suggest that you go to the hospital for examination and consultation. <br>In your case, I personally believe that the appearance of a shorter penis may be due to it being obscured by surrounding fat. <br>If you are considering a circumcision, it is important

Phimosis

Hello, Dr.
Hsu.
I would like to ask if my condition requires a circumcision.
Since childhood, I have experienced discomfort when exposing the glans after retracting the foreskin, which led me to avoid retracting it during my growth period.
I am also somewhat overweight, which makes my penis appear smaller.
Currently, when not erect, I can retract the foreskin to expose the glans, but it feels more comfortable with some lubrication.
However, when erect, the glans cannot be naturally exposed, and it seems that the hardness of the penis is insufficient in a state of phimosis.
Recently, I have tried retracting the foreskin to expose the glans before an erection, but during the erection, possibly due to the foreskin, I experience pain beneath the glans when the penis becomes hard.
However, if the penis is not as hard, the pain improves.
After ejaculation, the foreskin returns to its original position, covering the glans again, and does not get stuck beneath it.
When the glans is exposed during an erection, I can achieve the hardness needed for normal sexual activity.
Additionally, since my penis appears shorter when not erect, I often accidentally drip on my pants while using the restroom.
Could this also be due to phimosis blocking the urethral opening? I have heard that applying steroids to the opening of the foreskin may gradually enlarge it.
Is this method viable, or is circumcision necessary?

Lin Xiansheng, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2012/11/28

Dr. Xu Weikai reply Urology

Mr.
Lin: Hello, I suggest that you go to the hospital for examination and consultation.
In your case, I personally believe that the appearance of a shorter penis may be due to it being obscured by surrounding fat.
If you are considering a circumcision, it is important to be very careful; if too much is removed, you may experience issues such as pain during erection once you lose weight, as the remaining skin may not be sufficient.
Regarding the issue of tight foreskin, you can try using steroids, although the effect may be limited in adults.
If you have any further questions, feel free to ask again so we can discuss and research together.
Answers found online should only be used as a reference; it is essential to seek medical attention at a healthcare facility if necessary.
This message is from Dr.
Hsu Wei-Kai, Director of Urology, Taitung Hospital, Department of Health, Executive Yuan.

Reply Date: 2012/11/28

More Info

Phimosis is a condition where the foreskin cannot be easily retracted over the glans (the head of the penis). It can lead to discomfort, pain, and difficulties during sexual activity, as well as hygiene issues. Your description indicates that you experience discomfort when attempting to retract the foreskin, especially during an erection, and that you have concerns about the size and functionality of your penis.
In your case, it seems that you have a tight foreskin that is causing pain and possibly affecting the hardness of your erection. This can be a common issue in individuals with phimosis, particularly if the foreskin does not retract easily during an erection. The pain you experience when the penis is erect and the foreskin is retracted may be due to the tightness of the foreskin or irritation of the glans, which can occur if the glans is not accustomed to being exposed.

Regarding your question about circumcision, it is important to understand that circumcision is one of the most definitive treatments for phimosis. It involves the surgical removal of the foreskin, which can alleviate the symptoms you are experiencing, including pain during erections and difficulties with hygiene. However, circumcision is not the only option available.

There are non-surgical treatments that may help in some cases. One such method involves the application of topical corticosteroids to the foreskin. This treatment can help to soften and stretch the foreskin, making it easier to retract over time. It is generally recommended to use this method under the guidance of a healthcare professional, as they can provide specific instructions on how to apply the medication and monitor your progress.

In addition to topical treatments, gentle stretching exercises may also be beneficial. These exercises involve gradually stretching the foreskin over time to increase its elasticity. However, it is crucial to approach this method with caution to avoid causing pain or injury.

As for the issue of urination, if the foreskin is tight, it can indeed obstruct the urinary stream, leading to dribbling or difficulty directing the urine. This can be another reason to consider treatment for phimosis, whether through non-surgical means or circumcision.

Ultimately, the decision on whether to proceed with circumcision or explore other treatment options should be made in consultation with a qualified healthcare provider. They can assess your specific situation, discuss the potential benefits and risks of each option, and help you make an informed decision that aligns with your health needs and personal preferences.

In summary, while circumcision is a definitive solution for phimosis, there are non-surgical alternatives such as topical corticosteroids and stretching exercises that may provide relief. It is essential to consult with a healthcare professional to determine the best course of action for your individual circumstances.

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