Tight Foreskin          When It Is Normal & When It Is Not Many men have questions about their penis and in this article we will be focusing on the issue of tight foreskin. Becoming informed about what is normal and abnormal, what needs medical attention, and what does not can help ease concerns and provide options to remedy any problems that may exists. Certainly, we encourage men to talk to your doctor about their concerns as it is the best way to evaluate any issue on an individual basis.

Lisa S. Lawless, Ph.D., C.E.O. HolisticWisdom.com Founder

Phimosis-

This Occurs When The Foreskin Won't Go Back Over The Penis

Phimosis is when the foreskin forms a tight opening at the end of the penis and does not allow for it to slide easily back and forth. This can cause problems for uncircumcised men to masturbate and have sex without discomfort as well as simply having an erection.

Because the most sensitive part of a man's penis is the head (Frenulum) the foreskin's ability to pull back and expose it will dull sexual stimulation as well. Finally, smegma (dead skin cells and oil) can collect inside the foreskin making it not only smell badly but also put a man at risk for urinary tract infections when bacteria from the smegma enters the urethra.

What Is Meant By Tight?

Uncircumcised men typically have their foreskin slide back when it is erect. When it does not, the foreskin is considered excessively tight. It may be important to note that it is normal for uncircumcised men to see their foreskin swell a bit when urinating.

Tight foreskin does not necessarily mean that medical intervention is needed, however many men dislike the disadvantages and opt to explore options with their physician.

Causes Of Phimosis

Two main causes of phimosis are 1) A man was simply born that way. 2) Scar tissue which is most often caused by long term fungal infections. However scar tissue can also be cause by other factors as well.

Phimosis Treatment

The treatment for Phimosis is either circumcision of stretching the foreskin. If a man opts to stretch his foreskin it is something that should be done gently. Forcing overly tight foreskin backward may cause it to become stuck and cut off blood supply as well as the ability to urinate. If this should happen a trip to the hospital should be the next course of action.

How To Bring Foreskin Back

Gently pressing on the penis will push blood back down the shaft of the penis, making the head smaller and allowing the foreskin to more easily be slid back over the head. Using a lubricant such as a sexual lubricant or oil on the head of the penis may also help. There may be discomfort in pushing the foreskin back, but the pain should only last a moment.

Circumcision

If circumcision is something you wish to consider you can read more about it through our Adult Circumcision Article.