What Causes Phimosis and Paraphimosis in Children?
Phimosis occurs when the opening of the foreskin is stuck or tightens. This is normal for newborn babies. Over time, the foreskin will loosen and can be peeled off more easily. By the age of 17, most boys will be able to fully retract the foreskin.
Phimosis can also occur if the foreskin is pulled back before it is ready. This can lead to the formation of fibrotic scars. This will prevent the foreskin from naturally shrinking to be retractable in the future.
Paraphimosis occurs when the foreskin is retracted behind the crown of the penis. The foreskin then becomes too tight to return to the tip of the penis.
What Are the Symptoms of Phimosis and Paraphimosis in Children?
Symptoms may vary slightly from child to child. The most common symptoms of phimosis are:
- Ballooning of the foreskin when urinating
- The foreskin is stuck or the foreskin cannot be fully retracted by the time the child turns 3 years old. For some children, it may take longer.
The most common symptoms of paraphimosis are:
- Swelling of the tip of the penis
- Pain
- Being unable to push the foreskin back to the tip of the penis
- Discoloration on the tip of the penis (usually dark red or blue)
- Pain when urinating
- Reduced urine flow
Consult a doctor for a proper diagnosis. Paraphimosis is an emergency. Seek medical attention immediately if your child appears to have paraphimosis.
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