Does Retracting the Foreskin Promote Penis Growth? - Urology

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There is no scientific evidence to suggest that retracting the foreskin can promote penile growth.
The size of the penis is primarily determined by genetic factors and hormonal influences during puberty.
If you have concerns about penile growth or development, it is advisable to consult a healthcare professional for personalized advice.

Niming, 10~19 year old female. Ask Date: 2015/07/15

Dr. Xu Weikai reply Urology


Hello, it is not possible to stimulate penile development.
However, you can clean the foreskin to reduce the risk of foreskin inflammation.
If there are any unclear points, feel free to ask again for further discussion and research.
Answers found online should only be used as a reference; if necessary, it is important to seek medical attention at a healthcare facility.
The Ministry of Health and Welfare Taitung Hospital cares about you.

Reply Date: 2015/07/15

More Info


The question of whether retracting the foreskin can promote penis growth is an interesting one, and it touches on various aspects of human anatomy and physiology. To address this question, we need to consider the biological functions of the foreskin, the nature of penile growth, and the factors that influence it.

Firstly, it is important to understand that the penis grows primarily during puberty due to hormonal changes, particularly the increase in testosterone levels. This growth is largely determined by genetics and hormonal influences rather than external factors such as the position of the foreskin. The penis typically reaches its full size by the end of puberty, which usually occurs between the ages of 12 and 16, although some individuals may continue to experience slight changes into their late teens.

The foreskin, or prepuce, serves several functions, including protecting the glans (the head of the penis) and maintaining moisture. In terms of retracting the foreskin, this action does not inherently stimulate growth. The skin and tissues of the penis are elastic and can accommodate changes in size, but retracting the foreskin does not influence the underlying growth mechanisms.

There are some misconceptions regarding the effects of foreskin retraction on penis size. Some individuals may believe that regularly retracting the foreskin could lead to increased size or growth. However, there is no scientific evidence to support this claim. The size of the penis is primarily determined by genetic factors and hormonal levels rather than the manipulation of the foreskin.

Moreover, it is essential to consider the potential risks associated with improper foreskin retraction. For individuals who are not circumcised, forcibly retracting the foreskin can lead to discomfort, pain, or injury. In some cases, this can result in a condition known as phimosis, where the foreskin cannot be easily retracted, leading to inflammation or infection. Therefore, any attempts to manipulate the foreskin should be done gently and with care.

In conclusion, retracting the foreskin does not promote penis growth. The growth of the penis is primarily influenced by genetic and hormonal factors during puberty. While maintaining proper hygiene and care of the foreskin is important, it is crucial to avoid any aggressive manipulation that could lead to injury or complications. If there are concerns about penile growth or any related issues, it is advisable to consult a healthcare professional who can provide personalized guidance and support.

Similar Q&A

Does Phimosis Affect Penis Growth in Adolescents?

Doctor, I am currently in the 8th grade, but every time I retract my foreskin all the way, it is very painful. If I do not undergo circumcision now, will it affect the length of my penis?


Dr. Xu Weikai reply Urology
Whether or not to undergo circumcision will not affect the development or length of the penis. However, if there is phimosis, surgery is still recommended.

[Read More] Does Phimosis Affect Penis Growth in Adolescents?


Understanding Foreskin Issues: Do They Affect Penis Development?

Hello, doctor: I apologize for bothering you again. I have observed some errors previously. At room temperature, when I am not erect, the length of my foreskin just covers the glans, and I can see a bit of the urethral opening. I can retract the foreskin all the way back without ...


Dr. Du Shixi reply Urology
Hello: Whether to circumcise or not does not have an impact. If surgery is needed, it is usually due to phimosis or frequent inflammation, rather than for developmental purposes. Thank you for your inquiry.

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Understanding Phimosis and Development Issues in Adolescents

Doctor, my foreskin can only retract behind the glans when I have an erection, and pulling it further down causes pain. When not erect, it feels like the foreskin cannot retract at all. However, my mom said I had a circumcision at birth. Given this situation, do I need to undergo...


Dr. Li Xinyi reply Urology
It doesn't necessarily sound like there is a problem. However, it is still advisable to see a urologist for an examination to find out for sure.

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Hello doctor, I am 16 years old. My penis measures about 7 cm when flaccid and around 11 cm when erect. When flaccid, my foreskin completely covers the glans, but when erect, it exposes half of the glans, and I can fully retract the foreskin without pain. I would like to know if ...


Dr. Xu Weikai reply Urology
Anonymous: Hello, regarding penis size, you can refer to the research report from Tri-Service General Hospital for more information. Please check it out at http://sdact.tand.org.tw/issue/issue_info.asp?issue_id=5. If you feel that your size is below average, you may want to consu...

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