Phimosis

Signs and Symptoms:

Signs and symptoms of phimosis may include:

1. Difficulty retracting the foreskin: Inability to retract the foreskin over the glans
penis, making it difficult or impossible to expose the head of the penis.
2. Pain or discomfort: Pulling back the foreskin may cause pain or discomfort,
particularly during erections or sexual activity.
3. Redness and swelling: Inflammation of the foreskin (balanitis) or glans penis
may occur due to irritation and difficulty cleaning under the foreskin.
4. Urinary symptoms: Difficulty urinating or spraying of urine due to constriction of
the foreskin opening.
5. Recurrent infections: Increased risk of urinary tract infections or balanitis due to
poor hygiene and difficulty cleaning under the foreskin.

Prevention:

Preventing phimosis may not always be possible, as it can occur naturally in some
individuals. However, practicing good hygiene and gently cleaning under the foreskin
can help reduce the risk of inflammation and infection that may contribute to phimosis.

Treatment:

Treatment for phimosis depends on the severity of the condition and may include:

Medical Treatment:

1. Topical corticosteroids: Prescription-strength corticosteroid creams or
ointments may be applied to the tight foreskin to reduce inflammation and
facilitate stretching.
2. Manual stretching: Regular, gentle stretching of the foreskin under the guidance
of a healthcare professional may help gradually loosen the tight foreskin.
3. Hygiene: Practicing good hygiene, including regular cleaning under the foreskin
with warm water and mild soap, can help prevent inflammation and infection.

Surgical Treatment:

1. Circumcision: Surgical removal of the foreskin (circumcision) is the most
definitive treatment for phimosis, particularly if conservative measures fail or if
complications such as recurrent infections occur.
2. Preputioplasty: Surgical procedure to widen the foreskin opening without
removing the foreskin, often performed using small incisions or plastic surgery
techniques.
3. Frenuloplasty: Surgical procedure to release or lengthen the frenulum (the band
of tissue connecting the foreskin to the glans penis), which may contribute to
tightness and restriction of the foreskin.