Don't worry too much, the foreskin will retract
Normally, a boy's foreskin will cover his glans. Especially at birth, the foreskin may seem tight, and some parents may worry about affecting their child's development.
Although it looks "tight," it's natural. As long as it doesn't affect the baby's urination, parents don't have to worry too much. As a boy ages, the foreskin becomes loose and can gradually retract back.
As boys learn more about their bodies, they generally find out how to retract their foreskin. The vast majority of boys are able to fully retract their foreskin by themselves around the age of 16.
Once the foreskin can naturally retract back, the child can better clean the foreskin during daily bathing.
How to clean your baby's foreskin?
When a baby is young, parents should pay attention to helping their child clean their private areas before they can clean them on their own.
1. Gently pull up: Gently pull the foreskin back, but never forcefully. If you forcibly pull the foreskin back before it is ready, it may damage the baby's penis. Moreover, the baby's skin is very tender, and too much force can cause skin pain, bleeding, and even tears.
Mild Care: Clean the inside of the foreskin with a mild bath solution and clean water suitable for babies, but there is no need to use special cleaning agents or cotton swabs.
Thorough cleaning: Pay attention to thoroughly cleaning the inside of the foreskin and ensure timely drying.
4. Remember to turn back: Gently turn back the foreskin and cover the penis.
When the baby is older and can take a bath on its own, parents should actively guide the child to gently pull back the foreskin and clean the secretions during the bath. Let children understand that cleaning the foreskin is as normal as washing their hair and face, and is a part of health and hygiene.
When should I consult a doctor?
If a child has any of the following conditions, it is necessary to consult a pediatrician:
Discomfort during urination;
During urination, the foreskin is filled with urine or air bubbles;
Redness, itching, or swelling of the foreskin;
The foreskin cannot retract.
Sometimes, doctors may find a child with phimosis, which means the foreskin is too tight and adheres to the penis.
If the child is still young, it can be observed again. However, if phimosis is still present near puberty, it may affect development, and a doctor should be promptly consulted to determine whether surgical treatment is needed.