Urology and Andrology

Phimosis

Track 8: Phimosis

Phimosis is a condition in which the foreskin cannot be retracted (pulled back) from around the tip of the penis. A tight foreskin is common in baby boys who are not circumcised, but it usually stops being a problem by the age of 3. Phimosis can occur naturally or be the result of scarring. In most men, phimosis is not a serious problem and will not require treatment. However, it is not expected to improve on its own. As noted above, paraphimosis is sometimes a medical emergency, and the penis may become permanently damaged if you do not seek immediate medical attention. Phimosis usually goes away on its own within the first few years of a child's life. If it causes problems for instance, when urinating (peeing) it may need to be treated. Using a special cream is often enough. Surgery is only rarely needed.

It can happen at up to around 10 years old, in some boys. The foreskin can be pulled back behind the glans in about 50 percent of 1-year-old boys, and almost 90 percent of 3-year-olds. Phimosis will occur in less than 1 percent of teenagers between 16 and 18. Phimosis. You can get treatment in an outpatient office by a urologist. How they treat you depends on the severity of your condition. They will also consider the cause of the problem and ask what kind of solutions you prefer.

 In most cases, these penis disorders are easy to prevent. The head and the foreskin need to be washed and dried regularly. Be gentle with the skin if you pull it back, and do not forget to put it back in place when you finish.