What is the Issue with the Foreskin?

Circumcision is the normal skin tissue covering the male penis, providing natural protection to the glans penis. Excessive length of the foreskin can often lead to inflammation, resulting in balanitis and serving as an important factor for the development of sexually transmitted diseases. When the foreskin is too long, it often traps dirt and bacteria in the crevices, necessitating regular cleaning. If cleaning is insufficient, surgical intervention through circumcision may be necessary.

Circumcision refers to the double-layered skin that folds over the glans penis. In infancy and early childhood, the foreskin is longer, wrapping around the penis and concealing the glans penis and urethral orifice. This is physiological phimosis, which gradually resolves with age as the penis and foreskin develop. By adulthood, the foreskin retracts, revealing the glans in most individuals, but approximately 30% of adults have a foreskin that completely covers the glans.

Circumcision is the outer layer of skin that covers the male penis, glans, and urethral orifice. Due to congenital factors or improper care, various symptoms and issues may arise. Here, we discuss some common symptoms and their management:

1. Excessive Length of Foreskin: Although not a disease, excessive foreskin length can easily trap dirt and bacteria, leading to inflammation. When dirt accumulates under the skin for a prolonged period, it can form smegma, which can be felt under the foreskin.
2. Tight Foreskin Opening: In some cases, the foreskin may become trapped in the sulcus of the penis during erection, causing local swelling and pain. In individuals with diabetes, recurrent inflammation can lead to scarring and thickening of the foreskin, narrowing the opening and increasing the risk of foreskin entrapment behind the glans, causing discomfort.
3. Small Foreskin Opening: Also known as phimosis, this condition can lead to fine urine streams and swelling of the foreskin during urination, sometimes even causing urination difficulties.

For individuals with excessive foreskin length, regular upward flipping and cleaning are recommended, and surgical intervention is not always necessary. However, in cases of recurrent foreskin inflammation, narrow foreskin opening, or excessively small opening, circumcision may be considered. With timely treatment, these conditions can often be resolved quickly.