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Penis care (uncircumcised)

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Illustrations

Male reproductive hygiene
Male reproductive hygiene

Alternative names    Return to top

Uncircumcised penis - bathing

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An uncircumcised penis is one with its foreskin intact. An infant boy with an uncircumcised penis requires no special care. Normal bathing is enough to keep it clean. It is NOT recommended to retract (pull back) the foreskin for cleaning during infancy and childhood as this may injure the foreskin and cause scarring that could make retraction painful and difficult later in life.

Teenage boys should be taught to gently retract the foreskin during bathing and clean the penis thoroughly. After cleaning the penis, dry the area completely. Then, it is very important to pull the foreskin back over the head of the penis. Otherwise, the foreskin would slightly constrict the head of the penis, causing swelling and pain. This would require medical treatment.

Update Date: 12/10/2003

Updated by: A.D.A.M. editorial. Previously reviewed by David R. Knowles M.D., Department of Urology, New York-Presbyterian Hospital Columbia Campus, New York, NY. Review provided by VeriMed Healthcare Network (8/10/2001).

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The information provided herein should not be used during any medical emergency or for the diagnosis or treatment of any medical condition. A licensed physician should be consulted for diagnosis and treatment of any and all medical conditions. Call 911 for all medical emergencies. Links to other sites are provided for information only -- they do not constitute endorsements of those other sites. Copyright 2002 A.D.A.M., Inc. Any duplication or distribution of the information contained herein is strictly prohibited.