[ ARC forum 2 ]

Worrying...

Written by AJ at 19 Sep 2003 23:09:12:

As an answer to: Problems and worrying written by Thomas at 19 Sep 2003 05:11:12:

>I'm sixteen years old, and I am more or less certain that I suffer from Phimosis. The tip of my foreskin bunchs at the head of penis, and whether flaccid or erect, the acctual head of my penis is always covered.

There are a number of things which can stop the foreskin from retracting properly. Before you can decide what you want to do about it (i.e stretching, surgery etc.) you need to establish what that problem is. If you haven't done so already, then I'd suggest you check out the site that hosts this forum. There's plenty of info about such conditions there. Though to know for certain 100% you'd need to get a doctor or specialist to have a look (obviously that's embarrassing, but at least you'll know what you are dealing with.)

>I'm afraid that when trying to have intercourse, the pulling of my foreskin may cause pain or akwardness etc etc.

Such conditions can cause pain and awkwardness. However, some guys do live with it and are able to have sex regarless.

>What I'm looking for is advice, experiences and options that might put my adolescent (and thusly very self-concsious) mind at ease.

It won't put your mind at ease, but you can read about my experience in a similar situation here.

>Does my condition neccesarily mean sex will be painful and akward? (I assume using a lubricated condom will make it easier, but for sanctity's sake that's assume the sex is only naturally lubricated)

No neccessarily (see above.) You would most likely need a lot of lube though.

>Is there any way I can achieve a "normal" uncircumcised penis that doesn't invole painful/complex/long stretching methods?

Stretching in itself shouldn't be painful. But, no, there is no quick fix.

>Would you recommend I see a doctor?

Definitely. I'd also recommend that you speak to your parents. Again, it'll be embarrassing, but they'll want to know so that they can help and support you in the decision making process and make sure you get the best and right treatment.

>What about flat out circumcision?

That would do the trick. However, if you go the surgical route, there are several options that may resolve the problem without having to undergo a full circumcision - partial circumcision, dorsal slit etc. If it's something like frenulum breve that is the cause, then a circumcision won't do any good as there are other surgeries for that specific condition.

>Is that worthwhile?

For some it can be. It certainly was in my case. But, as with all things, there's two sides to every story (though a lot of the stuff on the Internet tends to deal with the negative aspects.)

>How is it done? Would I be sediated?

See my Circumcision FAQ for some information on the surgical aspects. It might help answer some questions.

>Are there an after-effects?

Yes and no. Depends on who you ask, I suppose. It's a very debatable topic and there is lots of crap on the internet that says circumcision is evil and really bad etc, but then on the other side of the coin there is also lots of stuff that says the opposite.

>As you can see I have a number of questions and doubts, and any help would be appreciated.
>Thank you
>Thomas

Again, I would strongly suggest you speak to your parents. It is a very complex issue that many people are very passionate (even to the point of being obsessive) about, so it is hard to get an objective look at the facts. You need to be thoroughly educated on the subject, but also need to watch out for pro and anti propaganda (of which there is an abundance online.)

Good luck.


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