During growth and development, the penis growths in length and width. At the end of puberty, the average erect penis is about six inches long, while the flaccid or non-erect penis may be much smaller. Many teen males worry about their penis size often noticing the differences while showering with others after sports. In fact, penis size is not related to masculinity, fertility or ability to give or obtain sexual gratification. Some males are concerned about the shape of the penis since some are straight and others have a slight curve. These are normal variations and have absolutely no effect on function.
All males are born with a foreskin. This skin covers the glans or head of the penis as well as the shaft of the penis. An adolescent male should be able to retract the foreskin away from the glans so that he can clean smegma which is a substance secreted by the foreskin. Many males are circumcised at birth either due to custom, religious belief or a medical concern
There are some medical issues that could occur with an uncircumcised male. If the foreskin cannot be retracted away from the glans, then the patient may have phimosis or a tight foreskin. By the time males enter grade school, about ninety percent of those who are uncircumcised are able to retract the foreskin. By adolescence, if the foreskin cannot be retracted, then circumcision is probably indicated since phimosis may cause discomfort during urination or sexual activity.
Occasionally a tight foreskin is forcibly retracted and becomes stuck behind the head of the penis. This causes pain and swelling which further inhibits the boy’s ability to place the foreskin back into its natural position. This could occur when a male with phimosis has his first sexual intercourse. A physician should be consulted immediately for care. An emergency circumcision may be indicated.
In uncircumcised males, the end of the foreskin, which is called the prepuce, covers the head of the penis. The prepuce secretes smegma and provides a warm and moist environment, which could allow for infection under certain conditions. Uncircumcised males can be infected with yeast from their female sexual partner. The yeast produces an infection termed balanitis around the head of the penis. The symptoms include burning, itchiness and swelling of the head of the penis. Treatment includes good hygiene and the application of an antifungal cream. The sexual partner should also be treated.
