Unlocking the Truth: Understanding Phimosis - Causes, Symptoms, and Solutions

Medically reviewed by

Dr. Shudhhatam Jain
MBBS, DNB - General Surgery

Introduction

As a result of Phimosis, the foreskin of the penis cannot be retracted (pulled back) over the glans (head of the penis). It can cause pain, difficulty urinating, and an increased risk of infection.

It is usual for children and young people to have Phimosis. A boy's foreskin is usually attached to his penis head as an infant. It is vital to consult a urologist for phimosis treatment if this does not resolve independently.

What is Phimosis?

There is a loose skin covering the penis' glans called the foreskin. In most newborn boys, the foreskin is attached to the glans. This separation usually occurs by age 5 but can happen later in some boys.

Phimosis occurs when the foreskin cannot be retracted after it has separated from the glans. Several factors can play a role in the development of this condition, such as:

• Inflammation or infection of the foreskin
• Scars from a previous injury or infection
• A condition called balanitis xerotica obliterans (BXO)

Causes and Risk Factors of Phimosis

Understanding Phimosis's causes and risk factors is crucial for both individuals experiencing the condition and healthcare professionals involved in its diagnosis and treatment.

By identifying these factors, we can better understand the factors that lead to Phimosis and develop appropriate prevention and treatment methods. The most common cause of Phimosis is inflammation or infection of the foreskin. Several things can cause this problem, some of which include:

• Poor hygiene
• Sexually transmitted diseases (STDs)
• Yeast infections
• Urinary tract infections (UTIs)

Other risk factors for Phimosis include:

• A history of Phimosis in the family
• Circumcision later in life
• Certain skin conditions, such as lichen sclerosis

Different Types of Phimosis

There are two main types of Phimosis:

• Physiologic Phimosis:

  This is the most common type of Phimosis. It occurs in newborn boys and is usually resolved by age 5.

• Pathologic Phimosis:

  This type of Phimosis is caused by scarring or inflammation of the foreskin. It can occur at any age.

What are the Symptoms of Phimosis?

The most common symptom of Phimosis is the inability to retract the foreskin. The condition can also cause several other symptoms, including the following:

• Pain during urination
• A burning sensation during urination
• Bleeding after urination
• A discharge from the foreskin
• Redness and swelling of the foreskin
• In the penis, a ring of skin surrounds the tip

How to Treat Phimosis?

The treatment for Phimosis depends on the seriousness of the condition. In some cases, stretching exercises may be enough to resolve the problem. A more severe case may require surgery.

Natural Way to Treat Phimosis

Warm water should be used to wash underneath the foreskin of men with uncircumcised penis. The area should be cleaned with mild or non-perfumed soap, and talc or deodorant should not be applied.

It is common for uncircumcised baby boys to have still their foreskin attached to their penis so it does not naturally pull back. Typically, it starts to detach between 2 and 6 years of age, but it can take time. When the foreskin is not ready, and parents try to force it back, they may suffer pain and damage.

Treatment Through Laser Surgery

If it doesn't cure naturally, then surgery may be necessary. The most advanced type of surgery for Phimosis is ZSR Circumcision. As part of the ZSR circumcision, the foreskin is removed involving minimal pain and bleeding enabling a quick recovery. A specialized surgeon usually performs this procedure.

Final Words

Phimosis is a common condition that can cause several problems. If you are experiencing any of the symptoms of Phimosis, it is essential to see a doctor. In addition to diagnosing the condition, the doctor can recommend the most suitable treatment.

FirstCure is a leading provider of ZSR Circumcision for Phimosis. Our surgeons have vast experience in this surgery and are dedicated to providing the best possible care to our patients. Call us at 953 8180 300 and book your appointment with us!