Chapter 1: THE CONDITIONS
The Various Forms of Phimosis
Phimosis is such a generalised term - it obscures an accurate
diagnosis, as successfully as the foreskin obscures its specific
the inability to freely retract the foreskin, occurs with infant
phimosis, epithelial adhesions, skin bridges, frenulum breve, or
phimotic ring. These conditions occur singly and in many common
Infant Phimosis: The pouting nozzle of an infant phimosis is easily recognisable.
This is normal and natural. Adults often retain a degree of this
elongated foreskin, but unless in combination with other conditions
this is no cause for worry.
Apart from the infant phimosis, all conditions, thus all the problem
conditions, lie on the inner foreskin.
Epithelial Adhesions: Among infants the foreskin normally sticks to the glans. This epithelium
or adhesive layer usually degenerates releasing the foreskin in
early infancy. Sometimes boys release it themselves or a doctors
does this, often a painful experience. Occasionally the epithelium
makes any movement of foreskin intensely painful or impossible.
Skin Bridges: If the
epithelial adhesions are forced apart, the sticky skin surfaces
can fuse together again, causing skin bridges between the foreskin
Frenulum Breve: A small sheet of skin underneath the glans joins the glans to the
foreskin, if this is too short it holds the foreskin forward.
Phimotic ring: A
thin tight contour of vulnerable skin tissue loops over the front
of the inner foreskin and joins underneath into the frenulum, forming
a noose around the glans. A primary phimotic ring (from birth) will
stretch; whereas when a secondary ring develops (e.g. in old age),
it will tighten.
Each condition has specific anatomical and sexual effects which
vary depending on degree, exact position and the elasticity involved.
Some conditions are merely irritating others are painful, some
typically result in inflammations and disease, some cause problems
by urination, others during masturbation; some cause problems previous
to intercourse, others during it, and still others for several days
To offer a very generalised understanding whereas phimotic ring is often merely restrictive, frenulum breve is usually a frustrating condition.
Accurate diagnosis is essential for optimal individual treatment. Please see the Phimosis
in detail (1,000 words) for further general explanations.