[ ARC forum 2 ]
Written by Paul B. at 18 Jun 2002 13:11:27: Condom Considerations
As an answer to: Re: The goal is what you make it. written by Jose at 18 Jun 2002 01:36:46:
> How does a condom affect the way the foreskin is retracted in a intercourse? I understand, a condom resists the movement of foreskin and hence it does not bother men having phimosis. Right?
Yes, it would to some extent resist the movement of the foreskin in your particular situation. Normally in intercourse, the tight (insofar as it is, of course!) vaginal opening grips the foreskin and retracts it on the in-stroke, and may pull it forward again on the out-stroke. Either a tight phimosis or a condom prevents this from happening - and in this respect a phimosis which prevents retraction is virtually the same as a condom.
Incidentally, a common misunderstanding is that friction between the glans and the vaginal walls is an important and pleasant contribution to the experience. This is actually not the case to any major extent - it is the "rippling" or "massage" effect of the corrugations in the vagina that is pleasant and these can be felt through either condom or foreskin - friction as such is no more pleasant than it is during masturbation, and friction within a condom is the main cause of dislike of them.
In any case, the only discomfort from phimosis is when a partial phimosis is such that the foreskin is stretched to the point of nearly going over the glans, or just passes over and is uncomfortably tight at this point. A condom will restrict the friction in the forward (stroke) direction and may well reduce this tendency.
> Another question- how enjoyable is sex life if foreskin does not go beyond glans?
All I can say, is that like most other body systems, sensitivity in the glans adapts so that a glans that is never exposed, remains very sensitive, enough to discern the movements of sex through the foreskin (which is in gauge, comparable to the facial skin around the eyelids), almost as sensitive as the lining of the urethra (or nose, or eyelids), while a glans that is periodically exposed, "tunes down" to suit.
In the event, many or probably most, the vast majority of men with a tight foreskin, manage masturbation, intercourse and become fathers without difficulty, frequently without even considering that they have any limitation at all.
> I just started stretching my foreskin and hopefully I should see some results.
We eagerly await your progress reports!