CARE OF THE UNCIRCUMCISED PENIS

One of the first decisions you will make for your new baby boy is whether or not to have him circumcised. If you have chosen not to have your son circumcised, there are some things you should be aware of and teach your son as he gets older.

What Is Foreskin Retraction?

Sometime during the first several years of your son's life, his foreskin, which covers the head of the penis, will separate from the glans. Some foreskins separate soon after birth or even before birth, but this is rare. When it happens is different for every child. It may take a few weeks, months or years.

After the foreskin separates from the glans, it can be pulled back away from the glans toward the abdomen. This is called foreskin retraction.

Most boys will be able to retract their foreskins by the time they are 5 years old, yet others will not be able to until the teenage years. As a boy becomes more aware of his body, he will most likely discover how to retract his own foreskin. But foreskin retraction should never be forced. Until separation occurs, do not try to pull the foreskin back — especially an infant's. Forcing the foreskin to retract before it is ready may severely harm the penis and cause pain, bleeding and tears in the skin.

What Is Smegma?

When the foreskin separates from the glans, skin cells are shed. These skin cells may look like whitish lumps, resembling pearls, under the foreskin. These are called smegma. Smegma is normal and nothing to worry about.

Does my Son's Foreskin Need Special Cleaning?

Your son's intact or uncircumcised penis requires no special care and is easy to keep clean. When your son is an infant, bathe or sponge him regularly and wash all body parts, including the genitals. Simply wash the penis with soap and warm water. Remember, do not try to forcibly retract the foreskin.

If your son's foreskin is separated and retractable before he reaches puberty, an occasional retraction with cleaning beneath will do. Once your son starts puberty, he should retract the foreskin and clean beneath it on a regular basis. It should become part of your son's total body hygiene, just like shampooing his hair and brushing his teeth. Teach your son to clean his foreskin in the following way:

· Gently pull the foreskin back away from the glans.

· Rinse the glans and inside fold of the foreskin with soap and warm water.

· Pull the foreskin back over the head of the penis.

Is there anything else I should watch for?

While your son is still a baby, you should make sure the hole in the foreskin is large enough to allow a normal stream when he urinates. Talk to you pediatrician if any of the following occurs:

· The stream of urine is never heavier than a trickle.

· Your baby seems to have some discomfort while urinating.

· The foreskin becomes considerably red or swollen.