Tight foreskin (phimosis)
Introduction
Phimosis is a condition where the foreskin is too tight to be pulled back over the head of the penis (glans).
Phimosis is normal in babies and toddlers, but in older children it may be the result of a skin condition that has caused scarring.It isn't usually a problem unless it causes symptoms.
Immediate treatment is needed in cases where phimosis causes problems such as difficulty urinating.
Medically Reviewed by a doctor on 4 Jan 2017
Introduction
Read about phimosis (tight foreskin), which is normal in babies and toddlers. It's usually only a problem if it causes redness, soreness or swelling.
Normal development
Most uncircumcised baby boys have a foreskin that won't pull back (retract) because it's still attached to the glans. This is perfectly normal for about the first two to six years. By around the age
When phimosis is a problem
Phimosis isn't usually a problem unless it causes symptoms such as redness, soreness or swelling. If your child's glans is sore and inflamed they may have Balanitis (inflammation of the head of the
Paraphimosis
Paraphimosis is where the foreskin can't be returned to its original position after being retracted. It causes the glans to become painful and swollen and requires emergency medical treatment to avoi
Subscribe
Ask the doctor
Rate this article
Find products