[ ARC forum 2 ]
Written by Paul B. at 28 Apr 2002 23:26:32: Foreskin treatment
As an answer to: foreskin treatment using betamethasone written by Rob at 28 Apr 2002 15:41:12:
> I have tight foreskin and have heard that it can be treated by use of betamethasone.
I'm inclined to point out that the betamethasone, at least on its own, is not exactly "treating" the tight foreskin but that you need to stretch it to "treat" it. Betamethasone may (surely will) make it easier to do the stretching.
You really need to read this forum in detail to find all the instructions for stretching. Along the way, you will find some contrary opinions. You need to read them carefully and figure where they are "coming from" and why they say what they do.
> However I understand this is prescription only and feel very embarassed going to the doctor to ask for this.
As Will says, "Anything that works at all needs a 'script in the UK" and indeed in all first-world countries. This is because there are potential side effects if used without due care, and the doctor is responsible for advising on proper use. Incidentally, if you do see a doctor and ask for the preparation, ask for the ointment. I have previously provided (as part of an answer including other matters), advice on how best to use it.
> what about hc45 is that suitable? ... the hc45 leaflet says it should not be used in the genital area
Hydrocortisone is much weaker, and would thus be less help in stretching. But the stretching is the essential part, so it would be much better than nothing. The essential message is: Start stretching now, consider the ointment as a possibility but only while you are doing the stretching.
In the case of the HC45 (and similar), the warning regarding use on the genital area relates to the fact that all these creams etc. make infections, particularly fungal infections, much worse, so they are warning, very appropriately, that any genital irritation should be reviewed by a doctor in order to determine what part if any a steroid should play in treatment.
But this is not the reason you would be wanting to use it, so that is not a particular concern. Of course, if you then developed an irritation such as another poster somewhere below describes, you would want to go see the doctor. If you are serious about fixing the problem, you should forget about whether it is embarrassing or not.
The only concern most of us who advise here on the basis of experience, have about people seeing a doctor, is the risk that the doctor may out of ignorance, advise circumcision as a "quick and dirty" approach to any and all foreskin problems.