Phimosis in infants, recognize the signs and how to handle it

Phimosis in infants is a condition where the foreskin is attached to the head of the penis and cannot be pulled back from around the tip of the penis. This condition is common in infants and children who have not been circumcised. However, there are also cases where phimosis in infants continues through childhood and puberty. Of course, this condition must receive medical treatment so as not to cause health problems. Although in some cases as the body develops, the foreskin will become loose and stretchable, but some will remain and cause interference.

Phimosis conditions in infants that need to be watched out for

Phimosis in infants is a congenital condition. Some cases of phimosis do not require special treatment. However, avoid forcibly pulling the attachment between the foreskin and the head of the penis, because it risks causing injury to the baby's foreskin. Generally this sticking will naturally separate, at 5-7 years of age or puberty. However, you also should not underestimate phimosis in your baby, because it can be a serious disorder and cause symptoms of redness, pain or swelling, even inflammation of the head of the penis (balanitis).

How to treat phimosis in infants

In general, phimosis in babies is nothing to worry about. The important thing is to always clean the penis regularly. Gently wash the baby's penis with warm water every day, during bathing. Avoid using powder, and soap containing fragrance on your child's penis because it can cause irritation. The doctor will do a physical examination and assess phimosis symptoms experienced by the baby, to provide treatment in accordance with the conditions they experienced. Treatment steps, which may be given, can be:

• Give corticosteroid cream

Corticosteroid cream is applied to the tip of the foreskin on the head of the penis, up to 3 times a day for 1 month. The purpose of this cream is to help relax the skin.

• Conduct circumcision

Circumcision is considered the best treatment choice for phimosis. Make sure you consult with your doctor about circumcision surgery for babies. Starting from the method, risk, and when the right time to begin circumcision.

Phimosis conditions in infants need to be addressed appropriately. Handling of phimosis in infants is different from phimosis in children or puberty. Always consult with your doctor for appropriate treatment.