Phimosis: Meaning, Types, Causes, Symptoms & Treatment
Phimosis is a condition where the foreskin cannot retract. This can affect men of all ages, but it is most common in boys who are still growing up. In many cases, there are no symptoms, and the condition will correct itself. However, phimosis can also be painful, difficult to treat, and may lead to other problems in adulthood if left untreated. If you think your son has phimosis, we recommend taking him to see his GP as soon as possible so that they can check him over and see if he needs treatment or not.
WHAT IS PHIMOSIS?
Phimosis is a medical condition in which the foreskin of the penis cannot be fully retracted over the head of the penis. This can lead to difficulty with sexual function, reduced pleasure during intercourse, and even erectile dysfunction.
Phimosis can be prevented by taking the following measures:
- Keep the penis clean
- Using a condom if the person is sexually active
- Applying lubricants before having sex.
TYPES
Physiologic phimosis
The type of phimosis mainly affects children and can get resolved with age.
1
Pathologic phimosis
The type of phimosis mainly occurs due to infection, scarring, and inflammation.
2
CAUSES
- Poor hygiene
- Scarring around foreskin
- Injuries
- Inflammation
- Infections (STIs)
- Genetic reasons
- Medical conditions (such as lichen sclerosis or balanitis)
SYMPTOMS
- Difficulty retracting the foreskin
- Discomfort during sex
- Problem in urinating
- Swollen foreskin
DIAGNOSIS
1. Physical examination
2. Blood tests to check for STDs (sexually transmitted diseases) and HIV (human immunodeficiency virus)
DO's
Wear soft underwearsMaintain proper hygieneMassage the penile head gently Apply recommended topical cream when requiredDONT's
Do not pull the foreskin too tightlyDo not attempt forceful retraction if it hurtsAvoid using a cotton swab on penile woundsRefrain from strenuous exercisesTREATMENTS
NON-SURGICAL TREATMENTS
Topical treatment
Topical steroids are applied directly to the affected area and can help reduce inflammation and improve blood flow. These include topical vitamin A products, urea creams (such as Urimax D), Lidocaine ointments, and other numbing agents that can be applied directly to the skin.
Manual stretching
Manual stretching exercises involve gradually stretching the foreskin over time. This can sometimes be done at home but, in other cases, may need to be done under medical supervision.
SURGICAL TREATMENTS
Circumcision
It is a surgical procedure that removes the foreskin completely and is usually considered a last-resort option when other methods have failed. Adult phimosis can often be a difficult condition to treat successfully.
Laser surgery
It is an effective way to treat phimosis. The procedure involves using a laser to remove excess foreskin tissue, which is then replaced with a graft from another part of the body.
RISKS AND COMPLICATIONS
Complications that arise due to phimosis are obstruction of blood flow towards the end of the penis. Others can be:
- Foreskin infections
- UTIs (Urinary Tract Infections)
- Intense pain
- Abnormal foreskin
- Scarring
IF LEFT UNTREATED
Penile cancer is most likely to occur after phimosis. In extreme cases, gangrene and loss of the penis may also happen.
COST
The average cost for the surgical treatment of phimosis through circumcision is between ₹32,000 to ₹42,000. The cost of the surgical treatment varies depending on the severity of the condition, type of surgical procedure, hospital facilities, and the city that opted for the treatment.
Financial Options
INSURANCE COVERAGE
The cost of circumcision, that is, the surgical treatment for phimosis, is covered under health insurance. Almost all health insurance providers ensure the coverage of the surgery to treat phimosis. There may be variations in the provisions or policies of the health insurance providers.
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Know more about Phimosis
Phimosis happens to people who are uncircumcised. It occurs as a result of the tightening of the foreskin that cannot be retracted or pulled back. The condition arises in almost all newborns.
It is advised to consult a healthcare provider if you are facing complications like gangrene or penile damage. Phimosis can be treated in a painless and efficient manner. If you are looking for Phimosis Surgery, Glamyo Health offers the best Phimosis Treatment, Phimosis Surgery with 0% EMI.
Phimosis is not a condition to worry about. It is curable and the surgery results are usually excellent. The goal is to seek medical help as soon as possible. Learn about all the treatment options available.
Circumcision is a surgical technique for removing the excess foreskin from the penis tip. In young boys, the condition gets better with time as the foreskin becomes flexible. Recovery from surgery is quick, and most men will experience no problems afterward, although there may be some soreness for a few days after the procedure has been carried out.
Surgery for phimosis is relatively straightforward and can usually be done under local anesthetic as a day case procedure. It involves making a small cut in the foreskin (circumcision) so that it can be retracted fully without a problem in the future. Recovery from surgery is quick, and most men will experience no problems afterward, although there may be some soreness for a few days after the procedure has been carried out.
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