Unable to Retract Foreskin? Get Expert Advice & Treatment Now

Hello,

Thank you for reaching out to Dr. Galen. Please find the below response to your query.

If you are unable to retract your foreskin to expose the head of your penis, you may have a condition called phimosis. Here are some steps you can take:

• Gently try to retract your foreskin during bathing. Use a small amount of petroleum jelly to help prevent adhesions from forming. Never forcibly retract the foreskin.
• If the foreskin is still not retracting by age 6, see a doctor. Phimosis that persists past childhood may require treatment with steroid creams or stretching exercises to loosen the foreskin.
• In some cases, circumcision may be recommended to remove the foreskin if it remains too tight.
• Never leave the foreskin retracted behind the head of the penis for too long, as this can lead to a dangerous condition called paraphimosis, where the foreskin gets stuck and swells.
• If you are unable to pull the foreskin back over the head of the penis, seek medical attention right away to prevent complications.

The key is to gently retract the foreskin during regular cleaning, use lubrication, and see a doctor if the foreskin does not become easily retractable by age 6 or if you experience any pain, swelling, or inability to retract the foreskin. With proper care, phimosis can usually be resolved without surgery.

Thanks