Phimosis
Phimosis means the foreskin cannot be pulled back over the head of the penis normally. It can cause pain, swelling, and hygiene problems.
Symptoms
Tight foreskin that cannot retract fully, pain with retraction, irritation, recurrent infections, and urinary difficulties in severe cases.
Causes and risk
Physiologic phimosis in younger men often resolves. Pathologic phimosis in adults is often caused by scarring, lichen sclerosus, or recurrent infections.
How it is evaluated
Evaluation checks for inflammation, scarring, and skin disease. Testing for infection may be needed.
Treatment
Treatment depends on severity and can include topical steroid cream, stretching exercises, or surgical correction.
When to seek care
Seek care for pain, recurrent infections, urinary symptoms, or difficulty with hygiene.