Phimosis — though a small word — can cause immense discomfort, embarrassment, and pain for many men.
In simple terms, phimosis means the inability to retract (pull back) the foreskin of the penis, which covers the tip (glans).
While it can occur in children, in adults, it often results from chronic infections, poor hygiene, or uncontrolled diabetes.
Sadly, due to the social stigma surrounding genital issues, many men in India silently suffer without seeking help.
A story from my practice
A 48-year-old man came to my practice with painful urination, swelling of the foreskin, and redness for over a year.
He had tried home remedies and over-the-counter creams, avoiding medical consultation out of embarrassment.
When examined, he was found to have severe phimosis with infection beneath the foreskin (balanoposthitis).
He was also a known diabetic, but poorly controlled. His sugars had allowed repeated infections, worsening the condition over time.
After counseling and basic investigations, he underwent a simple circumcision under local anesthesia.
Within a week, the pain, infection, and difficulty were gone — and so was his hesitation to talk about it.
His recovery story highlights an important truth: delay due to taboo causes more suffering than the disease itself.
What is Phimosis?
Phimosis is when the foreskin cannot be pulled back over the glans penis.
This can lead to:
- Pain or burning during urination
- Swelling or redness around the tip
- White discharge or foul smell
- Difficulty cleaning the area
- Infections that recur frequently
In diabetics, high blood sugar encourages bacterial and fungal infections, making the foreskin thick and non-elastic.
Common Signs of Phimosis
Typical signs and symptoms that suggest phimosis include:
- Tightness or inability to retract the foreskin over the glans
- Pain during urination or erection
- Ballooning of the foreskin when passing urine
- Recurrent infections under the foreskin (balanitis or balanoposthitis)
- Redness, cracks, or white scar-like ring around the opening
- Foul-smelling discharge or constant moisture
If these symptoms persist, medical evaluation is essential, especially in diabetic patients.
Why Diabetics Are More Prone
Uncontrolled diabetes leads to:
- Excess sugar in urine, which fosters infections.
- Reduced immunity and poor healing, worsening inflammation.
- Chronic moisture and fungal growth, leading to tightening of the foreskin.
Even mild infection, if ignored, can progress into severe phimosis, requiring surgical treatment.
The taboo and silent suffering
In India, genital problems are rarely spoken about openly — especially by men.
Many see it as shameful or associate it with uncleanliness or moral judgment.
As a result, patients often present late, when infection, pain, or even urinary blockage has developed.
This silence must end. Phimosis is a medical issue, not a moral one.
Just like any infection, it needs prompt evaluation and treatment.
Education and awareness — especially among diabetic men — can prevent unnecessary pain and complications.
Treatment — Circumcision and Beyond
The most effective treatment for phimosis is circumcision, a minor surgical procedure that removes the tight foreskin.
It can be done under local or short anesthesia, and most patients resume work within a few days.
Modern techniques make it safe, quick, and virtually painless.
In mild cases, topical steroid creams and hygiene may help temporarily — but for recurrent or diabetic cases, surgery is the permanent solution.
Hygiene and Prevention Tips
Maintaining genital hygiene can prevent phimosis and its recurrence:
- Wash the genital area daily with mild soap and water.
- Gently retract the foreskin during cleaning (if possible) and dry the area completely.
- Keep blood sugar under strict control if diabetic.
- Avoid self-medicating with creams or antibiotics.
- Consult your doctor at the first sign of infection or discomfort.
Final Thoughts
Phimosis is not rare, not shameful, and not untreatable.
Ignoring it out of embarrassment only worsens the situation.
With awareness, good hygiene, and timely medical help, men — especially diabetics — can easily overcome this condition and live comfortably.
Let’s break the taboo. Health deserves no hesitation.
About Dr. Abdullah Umayr
Services
- Laparoscopic gallbladder & hernia surgery
- Appendix & abdominal procedures
- Diabetic foot & wound care
- Minor surgical procedures
- Second opinions & postoperative care