Post-Circumcision Concerns: Pain and Tightness Explained

Q: Post-Circumcision Concerns: Pain and Tightness Explained

Anonymous： It's difficult to determine if everything is normal, especially since it's only one month post-surgery. <br>The swelling may not have completely subsided yet. <br>There have been patients who engaged in sexual activity one month after circumcision, resulting in the wou

Regarding circumcision?

Hello, Dr.
Hsu.
It has been over a month since my circumcision, and the sutures have mostly absorbed.
The protruding sutures have been removed.
I have masturbated once, but when I have an erection, the sutured area feels very tight, almost like it's being constricted, and it causes pain and discomfort.
The glans also becomes engorged and appears purplish.
Is this normal?

Niming, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2013/04/24

Dr. Xu Weikai reply Urology

Anonymous: It's difficult to determine if everything is normal, especially since it's only one month post-surgery.
The swelling may not have completely subsided yet.
There have been patients who engaged in sexual activity one month after circumcision, resulting in the wound completely reopening, necessitating re-stitching.
If there are any unclear points, feel free to ask again, and we can discuss and research further.
Responses on the internet should only be taken as references; if necessary, it is important to seek medical attention at a healthcare facility.
This message is from Dr.
Hsu Wei-Kai, Director of Urology, Taitung Hospital, Department of Health, Executive Yuan, who cares about your well-being.

Reply Date: 2013/04/24

More Info

After circumcision, it is common for patients to experience some discomfort, tightness, and changes in sensitivity, especially in the area where the sutures were placed. It sounds like you are experiencing a few typical post-operative symptoms, but let's break down your concerns further.

1. Pain and Tightness: After circumcision, the healing process can lead to tightness around the suture area, particularly when the penis becomes erect. This is due to the fact that the skin and tissues are still healing and may not have fully adjusted to the new anatomy. The sensation of tightness can be exacerbated by erections, which stretch the surrounding skin and tissues. If the sutures are still present or if there is any residual swelling, this can contribute to discomfort during erections.

2. Color Changes: The purple discoloration of the glans (the head of the penis) that you are observing could be due to increased blood flow to the area, which is a normal response during the healing process. However, if the discoloration persists or is accompanied by severe pain, it may indicate a complication such as bruising or even a hematoma (a localized collection of blood outside of blood vessels).

3. Suture Absorption: You mentioned that the sutures have mostly absorbed. This is typical for dissolvable sutures, which are designed to break down over time. If you notice any suture material that seems to be protruding or causing irritation, it’s important to consult your healthcare provider.

4. Self-Stimulation: Engaging in sexual activity or masturbation shortly after surgery can sometimes lead to discomfort, especially if the area is still sensitive. It is generally recommended to wait until you have fully healed before resuming sexual activity. This can vary from person to person, but many doctors suggest waiting at least 4-6 weeks post-surgery.

5. When to Seek Help: If you experience severe pain, persistent discoloration, or any signs of infection (such as increased redness, swelling, warmth, or discharge), it is crucial to contact your healthcare provider. They can assess whether your symptoms are part of the normal healing process or if they indicate a complication that requires treatment.

In summary, while some discomfort and tightness after circumcision can be normal, it is essential to monitor your symptoms closely. If you have any doubts or if your symptoms worsen, do not hesitate to reach out to your doctor for a thorough evaluation. They can provide you with personalized advice and reassurance based on your specific situation.

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