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Original poster

Foreskin query

5 replies

hamkin · 15/04/2008 22:55

I have recently noticed a problem with My DS (almost 4)foreskin (well, I think it's a problem??) He has been able to pull it back for a while, but I have noticed that when it is pulled back, the skin is still connected to the head of the penis around 3 quarters of the way round. The head of the penis is about half covered on one side and most of the other side seems normal.

He says it does not hurt him but has occasionally said "ouch" when I have gently looked at it (even though he often pulls it back himself with no complaints). I don't know why I have not noticed this before, but then again I have not paid that much attention, as I know you are not supposed to mess with the foreskin to try to clean it until it comes back.

Should i go to see thE GP, or will it rectify itself in time?

Any advice greatly appreciated. TIA

OP posts:
emma1977 · 15/04/2008 23:15

Most little boy's foreskins don't fully retract until around 5-7 years. As long as it isn't causing any pain or difficulty peeing, don't force it and leave well alone to let nature take its course. What you are describing are called 'adhesions' and are perfectly normal.

mypandasgotcrabs · 15/04/2008 23:28

As emma said most don't retract until they're a little older than your ds is, some even don't retract fully until theya re in thir teens. If it's not causing him any problems, then I'd really not worry about it.

Furball · 16/04/2008 07:17

my ds' (6 1/2) is exactly like this and I've just assumed it is still adhered and in the process of seperating ATM. Let him pull it back in the bath etc, but I wouldn't do it yourself as (as you know) you don't know when you are hurting him.

summer111 · 16/04/2008 17:00

My ds saw a urologist as a baby and when I asked him about caring for his penis(uncircumsised) he advised not to retract the foreskin for cleaning purposes but to leave well alone. He stated that when little boys 'find' their penis's, with time and manipulation, they manage to undue any adhesions that are there themselves...my ds always has his hands down his pants so he's got no problems with adhesions any more

Twinkie1 · 16/04/2008 17:01

Oh yuck - you aren't supposed to be yanking it about - all literature telss you to leave it well alone down there!

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