Long Foreskin: Hygiene, Health Risks, and Care Tips

The foreskin is quite long?

Hello Doctor, I previously asked whether circumcision is necessary (the situation is: the foreskin completely covers the glans, but it can be easily retracted to expose the glans for cleaning, regardless of whether there is an erection).
Your response was that if it can be retracted for cleaning, it is not necessary!
1.
I usually expose it for cleaning while showering, and I also try to expose the urethra while urinating.
However, during bowel movements, I may not retract it, and sometimes after urination, there may still be 1-2 drops of urine remaining near the urethra (possibly due to the foreskin being pushed back).
In this case, could this residual urine lead to inflammation of the glans or urethra?
2.
Additionally, does having a long foreskin increase the risk of causing infections in women during sexual intercourse in the future?
3.
Lastly, what is the appropriate water temperature for cleaning the glans? Thank you for your response, Doctor!

Niming, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2014/11/17

Dr. Xu Weikai reply Urology

Hello,
1.
If you are concerned, you can rinse with clean water after each urination.

2.
As long as proper hygiene is maintained, there should be no such worries.

3.
Cool water is sufficient.
If there are any unclear points, feel free to ask again for further discussion and research.
Online responses can only serve as a reference; if necessary, it is still important to seek medical attention at a healthcare facility.

Sincerely,
Dr.
Hsu Wei-Kai, Director of Urology, Taitung Hospital, Ministry of Health and Welfare

Reply Date: 2014/11/17

More Info

When it comes to long foreskin, or phimosis, understanding hygiene, health risks, and care tips is essential for maintaining genital health. Your situation, where the foreskin can be retracted for cleaning but may not always be fully pushed back during bowel movements, raises several important considerations.

1. Hygiene and Residual Urine: It's good that you are able to retract the foreskin for cleaning. However, if there are instances where urine remains in the urethra after urination, it can potentially lead to irritation or inflammation of the glans (the head of the penis) or the urethra. This residual urine can create a moist environment that may promote bacterial growth, leading to conditions such as balanitis (inflammation of the glans) or urethritis (inflammation of the urethra). To minimize this risk, ensure that you are thoroughly cleaning the area after urination and consider gently squeezing the penis to expel any remaining urine.

2. Impact on Sexual Health: Regarding your concern about the potential for long foreskin to contribute to infections in female partners during sexual intercourse, it is possible. If the foreskin is not adequately cleaned, it can harbor bacteria, which may be transferred during sexual activity. This could potentially lead to urinary tract infections (UTIs) or other infections in female partners. Therefore, maintaining good hygiene is crucial. If you notice any signs of irritation, unusual discharge, or persistent discomfort, it would be wise to consult a healthcare professional.

3. Cleaning Recommendations: When it comes to cleaning the glans, using warm water is generally recommended. The water should be comfortably warm, not hot, to avoid irritation. You can use mild, unscented soap if desired, but be cautious as some soaps can cause irritation. After cleaning, ensure that the area is thoroughly rinsed to remove any soap residue, as this can also lead to irritation.

In summary, while your ability to retract the foreskin for cleaning is a positive aspect, attention to hygiene is crucial to prevent potential complications. If you experience any discomfort, unusual symptoms, or have concerns about your foreskin, it is advisable to seek guidance from a healthcare professional. They can provide personalized advice and determine if any further intervention, such as circumcision, may be necessary based on your specific circumstances. Regular check-ups and open communication with your healthcare provider can help ensure that you maintain optimal genital health.

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