BABY PENIS CARE

At birth, the foreskin (the continuous layer of skin that covers the penis) is firmly attached to the glans (the rounded end of the penis). Over time in an uncircumcised penis, foreskin andglans begin to separate, as cells are shed from the surface of each layer. The discarded cells, which are replaced throughout life, accumulate as whitish, cheesy 'pearls' that gradually work their way out via the tip of the foreskin. Usually by the end of the second year for nine out of ten uncrcumcised boys, but sometimes not until they are five, ten or more years old, foreskin and glans become fully separated

.At this point the opening is sufficiently large that the foreskin can be pushed back, or retracted, uncovering the glans.

Care of the uncircumcised penis.

Contrary to what was once believed, no special care is needed for the uncircumcised penis in infancy - soap and water, applied externally, just as the rest of the body is washed, will keep it clean. Not only is it unnecessary to try to forcibly retract the foreskin, or clean under it with cotton swabs, irrigation or antiseptics - it can also actually be harmful. Once the foreskin has clearly separated, you can retract it occasionally and clean under it. By the age of puberty most foreskins will be retractable, and at that time a boy can learn to retract his and clean under it himself.

Care of the circumcised penis.

The only care the circumcised penis will ever need, once the incision is healed, is ordinary washing with soap and water. Not only is a little oozing normal, it's a sign that the body's healing fluids are heading to the site to begin their important work. Soreness and, sometimes, a small amount of bleeding are also common after a circumcision and nothing to be concerned about.

Using double nappies tor the first day will help to cushion the penis and also to keep the baby's thighs from pressing against it: this isn't usually necessary later. Usually, the penis will be wrapped in gauze by the doctor or mohel (a ritual circumciser of the Jewish faith). Some doctors recommend putting a fresh gauze pad, dabbed with petroleum jelly or other ointment, on the penis with each nappy change; others don't think it's necessary as long as you keep the area clean. You'll also need to avoid getting the penis wet in a bath (you probably won't be dunking your baby yet anyway, because the umbilical cord is not likely to have fallen off at this point) until healing is complete.