Phimosis is a condition where the foreskin becomes too tight to retract over the head of the penis. While it can be a natural occurrence in infants, persisting tightness can lead to discomfort, hygiene issues, or even pain. For many, topical creams offer a non-invasive treatment approach.
Understanding Phimosis and Cream Treatment
While a normal developmental stage in young boys, phimosis can become a medical concern if it continues into later childhood or adulthood. This tightness can prevent proper cleaning and may cause ballooning of the foreskin during urination or discomfort with erections.
Treatment creams for phimosis commonly contain corticosteroids, such as betamethasone or mometasone furoate, prescribed by a doctor. These creams work by reducing inflammation and thinning the skin, increasing the foreskin’s elasticity and facilitating gradual stretching for easier retraction.
Before Starting Cream Treatment
Before beginning any treatment for phimosis, a proper medical diagnosis is necessary.
A doctor will take a full medical history, inquiring about previous infections or injuries, and discuss symptoms like pain during urination or sexual activity. A physical examination of the penis and foreskin will also assess the condition.
Urine tests may be ordered to check for infections, or a swab taken from the foreskin area to identify bacteria. For adults, blood and urine tests may check blood sugar levels, as phimosis can be associated with type 2 diabetes.
It is important to understand that consistent application of the cream is necessary for the treatment to be effective.
Applying the Cream and What to Expect During Treatment
Topical corticosteroid creams are applied as a thin layer to the tightest part of the foreskin, usually once or twice daily. The cream should be gently massaged into the affected area until absorbed. Following the doctor’s specific instructions regarding application frequency and technique is important for optimal results.
The duration of treatment ranges from 4 to 8 weeks. During this period, gentle stretching exercises of the foreskin can be performed, but only to the point of comfort and without causing pain. Patients may notice gradual changes, such as increased elasticity, and some mild, temporary side effects like local skin irritation or redness may occur.
After Completing Cream Treatment
After completing the prescribed course of cream treatment, successful outcomes involve increased foreskin elasticity and the ability to retract it fully over the glans. Studies have shown success rates ranging from 60% to over 80% with topical steroid creams.
It is important to continue gentle daily retraction during hygiene routines to help maintain the improved elasticity and prevent recurrence.
A follow-up appointment with the doctor is important to assess the treatment’s effectiveness. The doctor will evaluate the foreskin’s retractability and discuss any remaining concerns. If the cream treatment is not fully effective, or if the condition recurs, other options may be discussed, such as additional courses of cream or surgical procedures like circumcision or preputioplasty.