The foreskin is the skin covering the head of the penis. It protects the opening of the urethra and the head of the penis. In most babies, the foreskin can't be pulled back (retracted). This is because of the narrow opening at the tip of the foreskin and its attachment to the head of the penis. The inability to retract the foreskin at birth is a normal condition.
As your child gets older, the opening of the foreskin gets wider. The foreskin also separates from the head of the penis and it is possible to pull the foreskin back. In some children, this occurs by age 3 to 5. In others, it may not occur until adolescence. This is normal. It's important that you don't try to force your child's foreskin back . This can lead to injury and scarring.
Home care
Maintaining good hygiene and care of the genitals (private parts) reduces the chances of developing problems like skin irritations and some common infections.
Before your young child's foreskin can be retracted:
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Wash the foreskin and penis when bathing your child.
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Change your child's diapers often.
Once your child's foreskin can be retracted easily:
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At the appropriate age, teach your child to:
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Clean the retracted foreskin with a gentle soap and water with each bath or shower.
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Use a small amount of soap. Too much soap could irritate the penis.
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Gently pat dry the tip of the penis, the area underneath the foreskin, and the rest of the penis.
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Return the foreskin to the covered position after each cleaning.
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Ask your child to wash their hands before they urinate or touch their penis. This is especially important after handling anything that can irritate the skin, such as hot peppers or chemicals.
Once the foreskin can be retracted, you may notice white, pearl-like lumps under it. These are called smegma. They are made up of skin cells that are shed as the foreskin separates from the head of the penis. Smegma is normal and nothing to worry about.
Follow-up care
Follow up with your child's health care provider as advised.
When to get medical advice
Contact your child's health care provider right away if any of these occur:
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Pain or swelling in the foreskin or penis
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Pain or burning when passing urine
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Partial or complete blockage in the flow of urine
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Urine shooting off to one side
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Blood, which can look pink or red, coming from the foreskin or seen in the diaper, underwear, or urine
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You can't return a retracted foreskin to the normal position. This needs immediate care.
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