BY & FOR BOY MOMS EVERYWHERE

As a new parent, there are many decisions and responsibilities that come with having a newborn. One of the most common questions for parents of baby boys is whether or not to circumcise. If you’ve decided not to circumcise your son, it’s important to understand how to properly care for his uncircumcised penis to ensure good hygiene and health. Here’s what you need to know to care for your baby’s foreskin and avoid common mistakes.

I’m Not Planning to Have My Newborn Circumcised. How Should I Care for His Uncircumcised Penis?

When you choose not to circumcise your son, you’ll need to take a few specific steps to care for his uncircumcised penis. Fortunately, it’s not difficult, but there are some things to keep in mind as your baby grows. Proper care at an early age will prevent any potential issues and promote healthy development.

Caring for the Uncircumcised Penis

The foreskin is a protective covering that naturally covers the head of the penis, and it’s important to let it develop on its own without interference. For the first few years of life, the foreskin is usually attached to the head of the penis, and gently cleaning the area is all that’s needed. Here’s how to care for it:

1. Keep the area clean: During diaper changes, simply wipe the area with warm water and a soft cloth. Avoid using soap, as it can irritate the sensitive skin.
2. Don’t force retraction: The foreskin is naturally attached to the head of the penis at birth, and it will gradually become more mobile as your child grows. However, it’s essential not to force it back before it is ready, as this could cause pain or injury.
3. Look for signs of infection: Keep an eye out for any signs of redness, swelling, or unusual discharge, which may indicate an infection. If any of these occur, consult your pediatrician for further guidance.

Should a Baby’s Foreskin Retract?

Many parents worry that their baby’s foreskin should be retracting at an early age. However, it’s important to understand that retraction doesn’t happen immediately. In fact, the foreskin remains tightly attached to the head of the penis for the first few years. It’s a gradual process, and it may not be fully retractable until your son is older—often around ages 3 to 5.

Before the Foreskin Has Separated

Before the foreskin naturally separates from the head of the penis, it’s crucial to avoid trying to retract it yourself. If you attempt to pull the foreskin back prematurely, you could damage the sensitive skin and cause unnecessary pain or scarring. It’s best to let nature take its course and allow the foreskin to separate when it’s ready.

Are You Supposed to Pull Back Foreskin on a Baby?

No, you should never pull back the foreskin on a baby. Forcing the foreskin back before it naturally separates could lead to injury and potential complications. The foreskin should remain intact and covered until it begins to loosen naturally with age. During this time, regular cleaning of the area (without forceful retraction) is all that’s needed.

How Do You Clean Gunk Under Your Son’s Foreskin?

As your baby grows and the foreskin begins to separate, you may notice some natural buildup of a substance called smegma. Smegma is a combination of dead skin cells and oils that the body produces, and it’s completely normal. Here’s how to clean it:

1. Wait until retraction happens naturally: Once the foreskin starts to separate and can be gently pulled back (usually around ages 3 to 5), you can start cleaning underneath it.
2. Use warm water: Gently rinse the area with warm water and a soft washcloth. You do not need to use soap, as it can irritate the sensitive skin.
3. Be gentle: Never force the foreskin back if it doesn’t move easily. Just gently wipe away any visible smegma, but don’t attempt any forceful retraction.
4. No need to over-clean: The area does not need to be cleaned under the foreskin if it has not yet separated. Just continue with basic hygiene by wiping the outer area during diaper changes.

Why Is My Toddler’s Foreskin Not Pulling Back?

It’s common for parents to worry when their toddler’s foreskin is still not retracting. As mentioned earlier, the foreskin doesn’t fully separate until around ages 3 to 5, and some children may take longer. If your toddler’s foreskin is still not retracting, it is usually not a cause for concern.

However, if you notice signs of discomfort, swelling, or other problems, it’s a good idea to consult your pediatrician. In rare cases, there could be a condition called phimosis, where the foreskin is too tight to retract. This condition often resolves on its own over time, but your doctor can provide guidance if needed.

Should You Pull Back a Newborn’s Foreskin?

No, never pull back a newborn’s foreskin. Forcing retraction in a newborn can cause pain, scarring, and long-term issues. The foreskin is designed to stay in place for the first few years of life, and it should only be gently cleaned during diaper changes. Retraction should only occur naturally as your child grows.

Does the Foreskin Detach During Puberty?

Yes, during puberty, the foreskin typically becomes more mobile and may fully separate from the head of the penis. By this time, it should be able to retract without causing pain or discomfort. Puberty is the time when your son’s body undergoes many changes, and the foreskin detaching is just one of those natural developments.

As your child grows, they will likely need more guidance on personal hygiene. By this time, you can encourage them to begin gently cleaning under the foreskin during their regular bath or shower routine. If any issues arise, don’t hesitate to consult with your healthcare provider.