Introduction
Phimosis is a condition where the foreskin can’t be withdrawn (pushed back) from the end of the tip of the penis. A tight foreskin is common in uncircumcised boys, but it usually ceases to be a problem when they are three years old.
Phimosis usually goes away on its own during the first few years of a child’s life. You may need treatment if it causes a problem when you urinate. Applying a special cream is usually enough. Surgical phimosis treatment is not always necessary.
Areas of tight skin are usually separated, and the foreskin usually loosens within the first few years of life. It is, therefore, best to wait a while before starting treatment. But you should seek medical advice if the child is in pain, his foreskin is swollen, or his urine flow is restricted.
Causes of this condition
Phimosis can occur naturally. This condition can also occur if the foreskin is forcibly removed before it is ready.
Swelling or infection of the foreskin (glans) may cause phimosis in boys or men. Sometimes it is the result of poor hygiene or foreskin infection.
Risks
There are several risk factors for phimosis. Some of these mainly affect older boys or older men.
- Injuries: Especially for older boys and older men.
- Sexually Transmitted Infections: Especially for older men.
- Skin Conditions: Includes eczema, psoriasis, lichen planus, and lichen sclerosis. These conditions cause inflammation and cracked and itchy skin, which increases the risk of developing phimosis.
Seeking Medical help
You can wait to see if the problem goes away on its own as your son grows older if there are no symptoms or problems. If phimosis interferes with healthy urination, or if there are other symptoms, your son should see a doctor.
A doctor should also check repeated infections of the glans or foreskin. Symptoms of the disease may include:
- The presence of spots or rashes
- Pain
- Itching
- Inflammation
Treatment
Phimosis treatment depends on the cause and symptoms of the condition. There are many treatment options available which include:
- Daily hygiene: Wash the penis daily with lukewarm water and dry thoroughly. Avoid using shampoos or harsh products on the penis or foreskin.
- Topical creams and ointments: The doctor may prescribe steroids or other lotions to reduce inflammation and irritation. It is sometimes called phimosis medication.
- Circumcision: Phimosis surgery, or circumcision, involves the removal of part or the entire foreskin.
Take care of the Uncircumcised Penis
As part of preventing phimosis, the doctor may recommend the following uncircumcised penis care:
- Thoroughly clean the penis with warm water every day
- Clean thoroughly under the foreskin
- Use a soft or non-abrasive soap to clean the penis and foreskin.
- Avoid pushing the foreskin of the baby. It may cause unintentional pain or injury
- Avoid using deodorants and talc on the penis. These products can sometimes cause irritation
Non-surgical treatment
Treatment of phimosis depends on age and level of phimosis. It can be treated by:
- Steroids or oils cream
- Exercise
- Antifungal or antibiotics
In recent medical reports, different types of phimosis creams are used in some cases. If the symptoms of phimosis worsen over time, it is vital to check for BXO symptoms. Adults can use a condom and lotion during sex when there is mild phimosis.
If a fungal infection causes a tight foreskin, it can be treated with a combination of antifungal medications and steroid cream. In adults with high blood sugar levels (diabetes mellitus) with phimosis, circumcision is a recommended treatment for recurrent fungal infections or possible BXO.
Surgical treatment
• Frenuloplasty: It is simply a function of removing the frenulum. The incision is made in the frenulum or surgery ridge under the area, allowing the frenulum to get removed from the head of the penis. It will keep the foreskin free and genitals clean.
• Preputioplasty: This procedure increases the width of the foreskin. A hole is made in front of the foreskin to enlarge it, thus allowing for a complete reversal.
• Partial Circumcision: Partial circumcision leaves a part of the foreskin slightly or entirely covering the head of the penis (glans). Though, it has a few problems in the long run.
• Complete Circumcision: Circumcision is still the most common surgery for solid foreskin, especially BXO phimosis, traumatic injury, or penile cancer.
In short, there are many alternatives to complete circumcisions, such as antibiotics, antifungal drugs, steroids cream or ointment, frenulum removal, VY preputioplasty, frenuloplasty, or combination therapy. It is a personal preference and can be discussed with a specialist or urologist.
Conclusion
If sexual activity with phimosis is painful or uncomfortable, it may need emergency treatment. Home remedies for foreskin are possible if the foreskin is healthy, with daily cleansing and bathing. The foreskin (balanitis) infections require treatment such as antibiotics or antifungal cream. It is advised to get tested for STIs and consult a specialist.
