Page 2 - Foreskin Care for Boys

Foreskin care for boys Foreskin care for boys

Possible problems

Occasionally, a problem with the foreskin may require medical attention.

• All over the body, skin cells are shed continuously as they die off and are replaced by new ones. This turnover
usually occurs without notice. Cell replacement also takes place on the inner foreskin and glans. When the foreskin
is not yet retractable, the dead skin cells may build up into soft, yellow or white lumps apparent under the skin.
This is called smegma. This buildup is a natural and harmless process that may help separate the foreskin from the
glans. The smegma will eventually work its way out as the foreskin becomes retractable.

• In some boys, the foreskin may be retractable even if the tip is a bit narrow. If the foreskin is replaced over the
glans shortly after your child voids or bathes, this narrowing should not cause any trouble. In time the tight area
should stretch and disappear. However, if your child leaves the foreskin retracted, this narrow ring may become
trapped behind the glans causing pain and swelling of the penis. This is called a paraphimosis. Medical attention
should be sought promptly so that the foreskin can be put back in the normal position.

• In the diapered baby, irritating substances in the urine may cause inflammation with redness and swelling of the
foreskin. Inflammation can be managed simply with more frequent diaper changes, the application of
antibiotic ointment (e.g. Polysporin™) to the foreskin tip and regular bathing. In some cases the entire penis may
become red, swollen and tender (balanitis). In this case, the child should be seen by a doctor who may prescribe
a course of oral antibiotics.

• As the inner foreskin separates from the glans, some areas may remain attached. These attachments are called
adhesions. Most boys will have adhesions at some time. As the inner foreskin continues to separate, these
adhesions usually break down on their own. By the age of 17, they should have all disappeared. The adhesions
should not be forcefully broken down – time and normal exploratory behaviour will take care of them as your
child ages.

• It is not unusual for some boys with incompletely retractable foreskins to have ballooning of the foreskin when they
void. This does not require treatment if the child is otherwise voiding without difficulty.

• Persistent narrowing of the foreskin tip preventing retraction after the age at which it should normally come back
easily is called phimosis. This may be the result of delayed maturation or scarring of the Phimotic ring. In some
cases, the foreskin will soften up and become retractable with the use of a steroid ointment. In others, circumcision
may be necessary.

The foreskin is a normal part of your child’s anatomy. With proper care and understanding of its natural development,
foreskin problems can be avoided.

This publication is produced by

The information in the publication is not intended to convey medical advice or to substitute for direct consultation with a qualified medical
practitioner. The Canadian Urological Association disclaims all liability and legal responsibility howsoever caused, including negligence, for the
information contained in or referenced by this brochure. cua.org 15E-FORE-06-09
© 2014. Canadian Urological Association. All rights reserved.