As soon as summer vacation arrives, the urology outpatient department becomes very busy because a large number of young boys and adult males come in to undergo circumcision. Some truly need circumcision, while others are just following trends. So, does every case of phimosis need to be circumcised? Today, we’ll popularize some knowledge about the foreskin.
There is a saying: existence is reasonable. Every component of our body has its function. The foreskin, as a part of the male external genitalia, serves important functions.
1. The Six Major Functions of the Foreskin
1. Protective Function
The foreskin covers the glans and serves a protective function for it. In primitive humans, this function was even more pronounced, as they often faced mosquito and insect bites while hunting in the wild. The glans is a sensitive area that is easily stimulated; hence, the foreskin’s coverage allows people to more conveniently engage in various activities. Modern humans no longer partake in primitive hunting activities and wear suitable clothing, especially well-made cotton underwear, which enhances protection for the genitalia. However, the foreskin’s protective role, as a result of thousands of years of human evolution, cannot be overlooked.
2. Lubricating Function
The structure of the foreskin is delicate and can move freely; this is unmatched by any other organ. The inner layer of the foreskin has secretory functions, and its secretions act like a lubricant during sexual activities, enhancing the experience. It is easy to imagine that without this lubricating function of the foreskin, the friction during intercourse would be too great, leading to discomfort for both partners and affecting the quality of their sexual life.
3. Prevention of Premature Ejaculation
Some believe that, because the foreskin covers the glans during sexual activities, it can mitigate and share stimulation, thereby delaying ejaculation and preventing premature ejaculation.
4. Bacteria Elimination
Secretions from the foreskin contain antibacterial components, notably lysozyme, which has the effect of killing bacteria.
5. Increased Sexual Pleasure
The foreskin contains many sensory nerve endings, and during erection, especially during sexual arousal, it forms a sliding covering over the erectile tissue of the penis, enhancing sensitivity and thereby contributing positively to sexual pleasure. Without the foreskin, the sensory experience during arousal could be diminished.
6. Repair of the Urethra
In cases of hypospadias, the foreskin can be used to repair the urethra.
Since the foreskin has so many functions, why do many people still recommend circumcising overly long foreskins? This is because an excessively long foreskin can lead to various harms.
2. Dangers of an Overly Long Foreskin
1. Balanitis
Due to long-term…
