Phimosis

[Col]

A bit embarressing but here we go ... I think that I have a condition termed Phimosis which is basically a tight foreskin.  I don't know whether I am naive or not but I think what I had was 'normal', Im not sure what degree a foreskin can be retracted although I'm sure its more than what mine is capable of.  Often you know what can be painful or uncomfortable.  I think that it is treatable with steriods or circumcism however that may be extreme.  Any ideas or experiences of this?

[georgit79]

Mr brother had this condition, and he had a circumsision, but it was picked up when he was 4 years old so the operation wasn't as "extreme" as it might be in your case. It all depends how much pain you're in. I would see your doctor about it if you're experiencing difficulties in the obvious areas (i.e. going to the loo and sex) and he/she will be able to offer you some options. 

By the way, when it comes to willies (sorry, just had to use that word!), anything goes! There isn't one "normal" prototype, so don't be worried that your foreskin is abnormal compared to anyone else's.

[stoo_pid]

Absolutely nothing to be embarrassed about Col.  I had the same problem (didn't know it had a proper name!) & ended up needing a circumcision.  I was 19 when I had it done, which of course is not an ideal age, but apart from being a bit uncomfortable for a few days I had no difficulties & certainly don't regret getting it done. (Actually, to be totally frank, I much prefer the sports model!)

Make an appointment to see the doctor.  They'll know exactly what needs to be done.  Good luck mate!

[georgit79]

"the sports model"- love it!

[Hgrove]

I gather a possible complication of phimosis is something called ballinitis (I think) which is basically an inflamation of the (not sure what the word is) tip of the penis(?)  I would recommend that you see your GP, too.

[tigga]

I had the same condition at 21 and as stoo_pid says, its nothing to be embarrassed about, and just a few days slight discomfort if it does need circumsicion.(think of it as a free upgrade !).

The main thing is to get a proffessional opinion, there is absolutely no need to feel embarrassed at all, however if you dont like the idea of your family G.P. you can call in at most hospitals and ask for the GUM- Genito Urinary Medicine clinic,( it may feel a little less 'close-to-home'.). 

 

[red thumb]

Col, here's the mom/female perspective: My sister & I both had the same issue with our sons. Hers is now 25 & was circumcised at 8.  She dealth with her younger son differently. When my son, now 9, experienced the same thing, I asked her advice. She was told, after her first son was circumcised, that manipulation of the foreskin can solve the problem. I encouraged my son to do so when he bathe & peed. It took many months but less than a year to work. My sister also did this with her second son. Of course, you're older that the boys were and circumcision will fix the problem but this is an option if you're "attached" to it (pardon the pun). For the record - my personal opinion on foreskins: It is a natural part of the body - why cut it off? And exposing something so delicate and sensitive will without doubt desensitize it a great deal so think twice about your decision. I concede that improper hygiene can create a less than alluring penis but the solution there is to just take care of it, right? for Hgrove: the tip of the penis is called the glans