Summer vacation is already halfway through, many parents take advantage of the summer break to give their children a “transformation,” and circumcision has become a popular procedure in major hospitals. However, Dr. Ye Daoyin, from the Jing Shun Urology Department, reminds parents that not every boy needs to have his foreskin removed. What are the dangers of having a long foreskin, and who needs to undergo circumcision? Today, Director Ye Daoyin will explain this to everyone.
1. What are the hazards of phimosis/long foreskin?
1. Secondary infections: If the secretions of the foreskin’s sebaceous glands are not washed out in time, they can turn into creamy “smegma,” providing a suitable environment for bacterial growth and reproduction, which may lead to urinary tract infections through retrograde transmission via the urethra.
2. Urination issues: The narrow opening of the foreskin causes it to balloon out like a “water bubble” during urination, leading to difficulty urinating or recurrent balanitis causing scar tissue narrowing at the urethral meatus, resulting in urination difficulties that could potentially affect bladder and kidney function in the long run.
3. Impact on penis development: If phimosis persists into adolescence, it restricts penile growth and girth, potentially leading to asymmetrical penile development and penile curvature.
4. Premature ejaculation: With the glans penis unrevealed, minimal friction and stimulation on a daily basis can result in hypersensitivity of the glans penis nerves, which may lead to premature ejaculation during sexual activities in adulthood.
5. Foreskin incarceration: Due to the narrowness of the foreskin opening, forcefully retracting the foreskin to the corona ridge may create a tight constrictive ring at that point, obstructing penile blood circulation, leading to edema, pain, known as incarcerated phimosis. Without prompt treatment, it could progress to ulceration, necrosis, or even ischemic necrosis of the glans penis.
2. Under what circumstances is surgery necessary?
1. Congenital phimosis: With a narrow foreskin opening, the foreskin balloons like an inflated balloon during urination, slowly deflating after urine passage, with residual urine dribbling, possibly leading to renal dysfunction due to urinary reflux.
2. Acquired phimosis: Due to excessive length or tightness of the foreskin, difficulties in cleaning may lead to infections, scar formation causing the narrowing of the foreskin opening, preventing the glans from emerging, causing discomfort, especially after erection, which exacerbates the sensation.
3. Foreskin incarceration: The foreskin can be retracted to the corona ridge, exposing the glans, but it constricts the penis, hindering lymphatic fluid and venous return. Failure to retract in a timely manner can lead to localized penile and foreskin swelling, congestion, or even necrosis.
4. Frequent balanoposthitis: If difficult to treat or insufficient care is possible, circumcision is recommended.
Director Ye Daoyin advises all parents: Whether or not circumcision is necessary depends on what the doctor says. Parents who are in need can consult Director Ye or visit the hospital for professional consultation.