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The prepuce, or sheath, is more than just an extra flap of skin. It consists of highly specialized tissue that protects the head of the male organ underneath; it also contains a great deal of sensory tissue that provides pleasurable sensation, and it acts as a natural lubricant for the manhood skin. In the past, this skin was often removed from male infants through surgical ablation - often for religious reasons or tradition, but also because it was believed to be healthier for the child. Now, doctors do not always support the practice as medically necessary, because this tissue has important benefits. However, if it is not cared for properly, certain prepuce problems may have a negative effect on male organ health. The most common problems and their treatments are described here. Phimosis. This condition occurs when the sheath cannot be pulled back over the head of the male organ. Physiological phimosis is normal in young boys; the sheath cannot be pulled back at birth, and it generally takes several years (or longer) for it to retract completely. However, in older teens and men, pathological phimosis can occur as a result of prior injury to the sheath, poor hygiene, or infections. Symptoms may include male organ pain, difficulty urinating, and swelling. Treating phimosis generally involves keeping the area clean. Men who have frequent problems with phimosis may opt for removal of the sheat. Paraphimosis. This problem is diagnosed when the retracted sheath cannot be pulled back over the head of the male organ. Unlike phimosis, paraphimosis is considered a medical emergency, because if the trapped skin swells, it can cut off the blood supply to the head of the male organ. This can result in gangrene, or tissue death, and in some cases, all or part of the male organ may require amputation if this occurs. Paraphimosis can be caused by injuries to the sheath - including aggressive stroking - or issues such as frequent catheterization or failure to return the sheath to its normal position after retracting it. Balanitis. This inflammatory condition is typically the result of poor hygiene; it occurs when the sheath becomes infected and swollen. Men with balanitis may also develop a smelly discharge. Frequent issues with balanitis can cause scarring of the sheath tissue and may lead to phimosis. Treating the problem is generally directed at keeping the sheath and underlying tissue clean; in some cases, topical cortisone creams may be recommended. Fungal infections. The area under the sheath is warm, dark, and moist, which provides the ideal environment for fungal spores such as Candida yeast. While cut men may also develop fungal infections, they tend to be more common in intact men. Fungal infections can cause swelling, discharge, itching, and a cracked, dry appearance; they can be treated successfully using over-the-counter antifungal creams. Foul odors. Even men who practice good hygiene can have ongoing problems with unpleasant manhood odor. This is often caused by bacteria under the sheath, especially in men who do not remove the smegma - the whitish, cheesy substance that builds up underneath. Carefully removing the smegma and keeping the area clean may help to reduce the odor. Caring for the uncut male organ With the right approach to care, men can avoid most of the problems discussed here. First, it is important to wash the male organ every day, at least once per day; and it should always be cleansed after intimacy, exercise, and other activities that cause sweating. Men should use warm, not hot, water for the purpose, along with a mild, non-soap cleanser. The sheath should be pulled back gently, and any smegma should be carefully wiped away, followed by a thorough rinse to remove any traces of soap. After washing, the sheath should be left retracted until the area underneath is dry; this will help to prevent unpleasant odors and reduce the risk of fungal infections. However, once it is dry, it is important to replace the sheath - leaving it retracted could lead to paraphimosis. Moisturizing is also key; the prepuce can have a tendency to become dry and cracked, which increases the likelihood of developing problems. Hydrating agents like vitamin E, and plant-based emollients such as Shea butter, are a good choice for this purpose. Using a male organ health crème (health professionals recommend Man1 Man Oil) containing these ingredients can provide vital moisture, as well as nourishing and protecting the delicate manhood skin. Visit www.menshealthfirst.com for more information most common male organ health issues, tips on improving male organ sensitivity, and what to do to maintain a healthy male organ. John Dugan is a professional writer who specializes in men's health issues and is an ongoing contributing writer to numerous online web sites.
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