This site discusses phimosis in its specific forms of phimotic ring, frenulum breve, adhesions or skinbridges. During erection these conditions inhibit the relationship between foreskin and glans. This functionally restricts the erection, and thus has an effect on the sexuality. With our culture's attitudes on health care, it would be appropriate to encourage early prevention.

Jan 2021 : Please read the new summary.

RING RECURS FOR 20 YEARS

I am a 32 year-old uncircumcised Canadian male. My question concerns the so-called phimotic ring. At about age 11/12 I experienced what I remember to be a rather severe case of phimosis. Over some time I recall not being able to retract the foreskin. The opening was very small and I believe there was some discharge as well. Frustrated with the situation, I attempted to stretch the skin manually until it could be retracted. After some time I was able to, however I created a situation which may have been paraphimotic. Eventually I remedied the condition by bathing in cold water and stretching.

Into my twenties I never experienced this situation again. While living in Germany I read that it was infact "unhealthy" to wash the foreskin using soap. It was recommended that water only be used. After I adopted this technique of hygiene I noticed a return of the tightness which was manifest in a ring at the junction of the inner and outer foreskin. Although no trouble in retraction occured, the ring nonetheless was noticeable especially during erection (a white indentation rather than an hourglass was visible). Eventually it disappeared. More recently it has returned. Again it is not severe but a white ring is clearly visible during erection, especially on one side. I would like to eliminate this. I occasionally try streching, in both directions with a vitamin e enriched cream, but with little success.

RS For permanent cure full circumcision is unecessary - preferable options are dorsal slit or partial circumcision of only the last 1cm.