[ ARC forum 2 ]
Written by Ivan at 11 Apr 2003 23:00:15: Re: Foeskin
As an answer to: Re: Foeskin written by chImp at 11 Apr 2003 22:25:07:
Yes, it is a challenge to interpret, but that does not make it false. Until that fact is made reasonably clear, or there is no way to further assist due to lack of sensible information, it is best to give what assistance is possible.
Paul, there are two possibilities, both of which are commonly referred to as adhesions. If you had been circumcised, then the remaining foreskin could have healed to the glans - the 'bell' as you called it. This is because the foreskin is normally attached to the glans in infants, and to circumcise, the doctor has to tear them from each other. This leaves open wounds, and if allowed to heal sitting next to each other, they will attach to each other. This is also the method used in female circumcision/infibulation to close up all of the vulva and vagina and leave only enough opening to pee.
The other attachment is the kind you were born with. It keeps gunk out from under the foreskin and gradually loosens through the pre-adolescent years, sometimes reaching into the adolescent years. It's natural and normal, but it does need to be gently loosened up. This is usually accomplished by the normal play with the foreskin that boys do. If you have not been circumcised, this is very likely your situation. You can try gently wriggling it - never make it hurt. Do it frequently, whenever you have your penis out. You can also try 'ballooning' - hold the foreskin closed while peeing so that it swells like a balloon; it tugs gently at the sticking areas and the urine is a mild antiseptic; don't let it hurt, just bulging comfortably. If it appears to be gradually letting go, then keep it up. If not, see a doctor who knows about these things.
If you were circumcised as a baby or toddler, then you ought to see a doctor about the situation. It can perhaps be fixed, but there is no way that this can be determined sight unseen. Good luck.