Understanding its causes, symptoms, diagnosis, treatment, and prevention is crucial to maintaining male reproductive health. Paraphimosis occurs when the foreskin of the penis becomes trapped behind the glans.
Causes
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During cleaning or sexual activity, pulling back the foreskin too forcefully is called Forceful Retraction.
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Foreskin swelling and constriction can result from trauma to the genital area.
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Infections such as balanitis (inflammation of the glans) can cause swelling and difficulty retracting the foreskin.
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Paraphimosis may occur as a result of certain medical procedures involving the genital area.
Symptoms
It is important to recognize the symptoms of paraphimosis in order to receive prompt treatment. Common symptoms include:
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When the foreskin swells, it becomes difficult to retract.
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Genital pain: A feeling of discomfort or pain in the genital area.
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Due to restricted blood flow, the affected area may appear red or purple.
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Constriction of the foreskin can make it difficult to urinate.
Diagnosis
In order to diagnose paraphimosis, a healthcare professional will assess your symptoms and conduct additional tests to rule out other conditions.
Treatment
To prevent complications associated with paraphimosis, prompt treatment is essential. Treatment options include:
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Squeezing the glans gently to reduce swelling and pull the foreskin forward.
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The application of topical creams or ointments to reduce swelling and inflammation.
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Healthcare professionals may need to make a small incision to relieve pressure and facilitate retraction of the foreskin in severe cases.
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Paraphimosis can be corrected surgically in rare cases when other methods fail.
Prevention
Some measures can reduce the risk of paraphimosis, although it may not always be preventable:
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When cleaning the foreskin, avoid forcefully retracting it.
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To reduce the risk of genital injuries and infections, practice safe sexual practices.
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To prevent complications, seek medical attention promptly if you have any genital infections.
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A regular medical check-up can help identify and address underlying issues in a timely manner.
