Penis Sensitivity and Foreskin Restoration

There has been a debate raging over the past few decades about the common practice of circumcision for infant boys. Those who promote the practice believe it leads to better hygiene later in life. But those who are against it point out that the loss of foreskin can mean significant loss of sensation. Even the best penis care might not be enough to allow a circumcised man to feel the intense sensations that uncircumcised men do.

But besides the desire to improve penis sensitivity, many see foreskin restoration as a good way to right the ‘wrong’ done to those who are circumcised long before they are old enough to make the decision for themselves. There are several ways to go about foreskin restoration; we’ll talk about some of the most popular, as well as what a man can expect from penis sensitivity if he chooses to go this route.

Foreskin restoration options

Ultimately, there are two options for restoration: Surgical and non-surgical. The surgical route involves grafting tissues from other parts of the body, such as the scrotum, onto the penis to elongate the skin that is already there behind the glans. The result is a penis that looks and acts as though it is uncircumcised, but the jury is still out on whether it really improves penis sensation. That’s why many doctors recommend the non-surgical options.

Non-surgical options usually include some sort of traction device or weighted device that pulls the skin down over the glans. It works very slowly. During the time a man is using it, the body generates new cells that allow the skin to be pulled farther down over the glans. Eventually, a man might have enough skin to cover the glans and make it appear that he still has his natural foreskin. The level of patience and dedication must be very strong for a man to make this a viable option.

What does it all mean for penis sensitivity?

For most men, the heightened penis sensitivity that comes from having a foreskin stems from the fact that the foreskin covers the glans, thus protecting it from the harsh environment around it. A man with an uncircumcised penis has that gentle layer of protection between the most sensitive part of his penis and the underwear, trousers, and any other material that might come into contact with it. The result is an area much more sensitive to touch.

How does a foreskin restoration help? Over time, the skin that covers the glans allows it to lose some of the ‘toughness’ it developed over the years of being touched by underwear and other materials. This, in turn, allows the penis sensation to come back, making a man much more sensitive. Other options to make this happen do exist in the form of an artificial foreskin, which is simply the use of a very soft, pliable cover that attaches to the head of the penis with gentle pressure (such as a Velcro closure), which keeps the glans encased in a warm, slightly moist environment that mimics what a real foreskin would do.

When a man is considering foreskin restoration, he should always do thorough research and consult with his doctor about ways to regain penis sensitivity. He should also make good use of a daily penis health crème (health professionals recommend Man 1 Man Oil, which is clinically proven mild and safe for skin). A crème that contains Shea butter and vitamin E can go a long way toward keeping skin smooth and supple, ready for the lightest touch. A crème that contains L-carnitine can also be helpful in preventing peripheral nerve damage that can result from excessive handling, exposure to environmental issues and much more.

Red Penis and Foreskin: Some Helpful Hints

A red penis is something that can occur regardless of whether a man has a foreskin or not. While men may endlessly debate the pros and cons of being intact or circumcised, and whether this has any effect on penis health, the fact is that an atypically red penis is something no man wants. For men with a foreskin who develop a very red penis, these helpful hints may be valuable.

Red penis state
 
To some degree, a red penis may occur more frequently in men with foreskin, for the simple fact that balanitis - one of the more common causes of a red penis - is somewhat more common among intact men. But there can be other causes of inflammation, which often accounts for a reddening of the manhood.

So what are some hints for intact men with a red penis?

1. Cleanliness is essential. Often the reason for that redness is bacteria that have become trapped between the foreskin and the penis. Taking extra care to pull back the foreskin and clean thoroughly can help the bacteria from accumulating and starting the inflammation that leads to unwanted redness.

2. Bathing may be better. But what about when the penis is already inflamed? In such cases, pulling back the foreskin can become difficult and painful. If that’s the case, try taking a bath instead of showering. Soaking in a nice, warm bath can help the foreskin to loosen somewhat so that it may then be easier to pull it back and work on the infected penis. Even if the penis is too swollen to allow for comfortable pulling of the foreskin, the warm bathwater can still provide some relief as the water seeps underneath the foreskin.

3. Use gentle cleansers. Penis skin is very sensitive, to the point where harsh soaps can create damage. Most antibacterial soaps are great for the hands - but not so good for the more delicate penis. It’s much better to use a gentle soap with few chemicals or fragrances added to it.That may seem counterintuitive, since a man wants to get rid of bacteria that may cause an inflammation. But the harshness of an antibacterial soap can do more harm than good. It also pays to switch to a gentle laundry detergent, as the residue of harsh detergents on underwear and trousers can create a red penis situation.

4. Keep wet. Keeping the skin moist is very important, and staying hydrated is a natural way to ensure the skin gets the moisture it needs. The water a man drinks benefits the entire body, including the penis skin and foreskin. When penis skin is dry, it is less supple and flexible, making it more difficult for the foreskin to move back and forth in the proper manner. Every man needs to drink plenty of fluids and/or eat fruits and vegetables to stay well hydrated.

5. Consider help. If the foreskin is too swollen for retraction, sometimes a doctor may need to step in to help. He may advise use of medicine, such as anti-inflammatories or corticosteroids, to help alleviate the situation.

A red penis often leads to discomfort. Regular application of a superior penis health crème (health professionals recommend Man1 Man Oil, which is clinically proven mild and safe for skin) helps keep a penis healthy and more liable to fight back against the causes of red penis pain. Since moisturizing is the key, a man should definitely select a crème with the potent combination of a high-end emollient (think Shea butter) and a natural hydrator (like vitamin E). In addition, a crème with vitamin D is recommended. Vitamin D is sometimes called the "miracle vitamin" due to its proven benefits in fighting diseases and supporting healthy cellular function.

Foreskin Fun: Masturbation Tips for Intact Men

While researchers debate whether foreskin affords intact men greater sexual sensations, there is no doubt that having foreskin opens a man up to different techniques for masturbatory fun. Frequent masturbation is, for many men, a component of sexual and penis health, as it keeps the tissues strong, supports prolonged erectile function and gets a man in touch with his body and what he likes. Men with foreskin can try the following masturbation techniques for which their penises are uniquely equipped. Note: These techniques can also be employed by a partner administering a hand job.

Slide it over
 
Many uncircumcised men enjoy the sensation of their foreskins sliding over the heads of their penises. Once erect, a man can grip near the base of his uncut penis and move his hand up and down, just enough to get the foreskin to slide over his head and back down, over and over again. Try going slow and enjoying the strip tease as the head becomes exposed and covered up again. This can be particularly fun with a partner, who may place his or her mouth near the head and lick around the area as the head becomes exposed.

Pinch it
 
A man can also experience the pleasurable sensation of his foreskin moving around the penile head while keeping the head covered by the sheath. Pull the foreskin past the head, pinch it gently and pull in and out; the shrouded head might enjoy the subtler sensation of the foreskin encasing it.

Slide a finger in
 
With the foreskin covering the head, a man can slide his finger inside and move it in a circular motion. It may be particularly thrilling to see the finger’s bulge underneath the foreskin, similar to seeing a partner’s hand bulge from underneath a man’s trousers or underwear.

Ejaculate inside it
 
Another interesting thing only the intact man can do is ejaculate inside his foreskin. He may not catch it all, but this move will certainly provide a new sensation that he may find he enjoys - similar to finishing inside a partner.

The length and elasticity of men’s foreskin varies. Some men may not be able to comfortably pull off the above moves, and that’s just fine. Men should feel free to experiment with different ways of touching their foreskin and using it during sexual activities, communicating what they like, as well as what they don’t, with their partners.

In Western culture, many men are self-conscious about foreskin, since circumcision is the norm. This can lead to body image issues and insecurities that interfere with their sex lives and their emotional wellbeing. Along with dispelling myths about the foreskin being unclean or somehow "gross," men would do well to learn ways to make the most of it and actually enjoy it. The above tips will hopefully help.

Foreskin or none, guys can show their penises extra love by making sure to take care of their skin condition. One important factor in maintaining healthy skin is using ample lubricant during masturbation. Men with foreskin may have an advantage here, as their foreskins provide natural lubrication to the member. Still, it’s a good idea to have a product on hand in case additional slickness is needed.

Another thing men can do for their skin is apply a penis health crème (health professionals recommend Man1 Man Oil) daily. Men with dry, chafed penile skin will benefit from two natural moisturizers, Shea butter and vitamin E, found in Man1 Man Oil. Rough and sore skin is not pleasing to the touch, and may actually be less capable of experiencing pleasurable sensations. Investing in a skin care product specifically designed for the penis is a wise choice for men who could use a boost in the skin condition department.

Foreskin Facts: Dispelling Anxieties about the Intact Penis

Foreskin is a hot topic of debate in the U.S. Some argue that circumcision is necessary for penis health; others assert that the procedure is barbaric and completely unnecessary. This debate tends to weigh heavily on uncut men, leading to anxieties and insecurities concerning their manhoods.
But some of the stigma around foreskin can be vanquished by learning the facts about the sheath. The following may help uncut men improve their body image.

Worldwide Majority
 
Part of the reason that foreskin is of particular concern for American men is that circumcision is common in this country. Therefore, uncut men form a minority. However, worldwide, only about one-third of men are circumcised. Taking a global perspective, then, uncircumcised men actually form a notable majority.

Decline of Procedures in U.S.
 
Circumcision is not as popular as it used to be in the U.S.; according to a report by the National Center for Health Statistics (NCHS), a branch of the Centers for Disease Control (CDC), the circumcision rate for baby boys fell from 64.5% in 1979 to 58.3% in 2010, meaning that, in the near future, circumcised men will form a narrower majority. When foreskins are more common, stigma surrounding them will likely decrease.

Rate Varies Significantly Across the U.S.
 
Some uncircumcised men within the U.S. are actually in the majority, at least regionally. In the western states, only about 40% of boys are circumcised. The rates is highest in the Midwest, right around 70%.

Unclear Medical Benefits
 
Over the past several decades, the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) has taken a few different positions, none of which clearly endorse circumcision. In the 1970’s, the AAP stated there was no medical indication for the procedure; in ’89, it recognized that there are potential medical benefits to the surgery, and since has stated that, though there may be benefits, there is not sufficient evidence to support circumcision on newborns as a standard practice.

Studies in Perspective
 
Some men may have heard that having foreskin makes them more prone to contracting HIV and penile cancer. And there are some studies that indicate this to be true. But they need to be contextualized. The study that found foreskin to be correlated with HIV infection was conducted on African men having heterosexual sex. The vast majority of infections in the U.S. take place among homosexual men, meaning the reduced risk may not translate well for U.S. men.

Penile cancer is extremely uncommon in the U.S., affecting fewer than 1 in 100,000 men. It is believed to be more common in uncircumcised men because they are more likely to contract varieties of HPV, which increases penile cancer risk, and because they accumulate smegma, which may also be linked to risk. But practicing proper hygiene by removing smegma buildup frequently, along with practicing safe sex, can mitigate these factors. Also worth noting is that being circumcised as an adult does not lower penile cancer risk (some research suggests this may actually increase risk).

As foreskin becomes more the norm, uncut men may experience a newfound sense of confidence in their bodies. In the meantime, men should understand that there is nothing inherently wrong, dirty or unhealthy about their natural sheaths.

Some men do notice an odor coming from the member that they suspect has to do with foreskin and smegma, and this may be so; smegma attracts bacteria, and if it is allowed to build up, it can produce an off-putting smell. Proper hygiene is generally sufficient to take care of this. Men should avoid strong anti-bacterial soaps, which may be too harsh for the penis. If men want an extra boost in the anti-bacterial department, they can invest in a penis health crème (health professionals recommend Man1 Man Oil) with vitamin A, a natural bacteria-fighter. In addition, this crème serves as a natural moisturizer, helping to keep the penis skin smooth, soft and supple. Circumcised or not, healthy penis skin is always something worth maintaining.

The Penis Foreskin: A Woman's Guide

Although the majority of men worldwide are intact - that is, have a penis with a foreskin - in some parts of the world, such as the United States, most men are circumcised. In such areas, women rarely come into contact with a foreskin and so could benefit from a short guide to this body part. Although there is ongoing (and sometimes fierce) debate as to whether being circumcised or intact is "better" or has a positive impact on penis health, most intact men are quite satisfied with having a foreskin.

What is it?
 
The technical term for the foreskin is "prepuce," although there are many other slang terms for it (such as hood, cap, sheath, etc.). The foreskin is a flap of skin that covers the glans of the penis when it is in its resting state. When the penis becomes erect, the foreskin retracts to allow the glans to protrude. All boys are born with a foreskin; some become circumcised, meaning that the foreskin is removed.

The foreskin can provide an extra layer of protection for the glans, which can be quite sensitive otherwise. Studies also indicate that the foreskin contains highly sensitive nerve endings which can play a role in sexual stimulation. In addition, foreskin tends to be self-lubricating, which many intact men find to be a plus.

What to know
 
So what are some of the things that a woman may need to know about the foreskin? Well…

- It does retract. Although on boys the foreskin may be tight and require loosening in order to appropriately retract, in adult males the foreskin does "roll back" during the erectile process.

- But sometimes it doesn't retract. However, there are cases where the foreskin is too tight, often due to the glans becoming swollen. (The condition in which the foreskin is too tight for easy retraction is called phimosis.) If this is an issue, a man needs to see a doctor, who may recommend treatment such as application of a steroid cream or manual stretching techniques.

- Men are individual; so are their foreskins. Every guy is slightly different - and so is his foreskin. Some men have hoods that are very flexible and loose; they may enjoy having a partner gently stretch on them or roll them back. Other men's prepuces are tighter and more sensitive, and a more cautious approach may be necessary. When being introduced to a man's foreskin, a woman may want to do some exploring - with the owner's permission, of course. She can ask a man how he likes his foreskin handled or she can begin touching it and asking if what she is doing feels good, or if there is something else she should try.

- Men can be particular about their condom fittings. Some intact men prefer to slip a condom on with the foreskin covering the glans; others prefer to roll back the foreskin and expose the glans before fitting the condom on. It’s generally recommended that a man be retracted. If a woman is helping apply the condom, she should ask a man for guidance so as not to go too fast or rough.

- Hygiene is important. For all men, good penis hygiene is crucial. For intact men, washing "under the hood" is essential - and can sometimes be a little difficult. This is especially true if the foreskin is tight; rolling it back to wash under the foreskin can be challenging. On the other hand, sometimes a guy can over wash-under the skin, which can cause the glans and surrounding area to dry up.

Using a first-rate penis health crème (health professionals recommend Man1 Man Oil) can help with these foreskin cleaning challenges - and a woman can guide her man to this option. A crème with a combination of a high-end emollient (such as Shea butter) and a natural hydrator (such as vitamin E) can help to keep the skin moisturized. All men are prone to penis odor problems; when cleaning under the foreskin is challenging, this can be pronounced. Fortunately, a crème with vitamin A, which has potent anti-bacterial properties, can help to kill the bacteria that contribute to persistent penis odor conditions. Women may want to recommend Man1 Man Oil to their intact partners to help maintain precious penile health.

Uncircumcised Penis Myths - Get the Facts Straight

A man with an uncircumcised penis in the U.S. gets a raw deal in many ways, at least when it comes to common conceptions about what he’s packing. There are many great things about having foreskin, but cultural myths have influenced opinions about penile hygiene and aesthetics that give the sheath a bad rap. But so long as a man practices routine penis care, his tool is likely not only healthy, but quite lovely to behold, foreskin and all. Getting to that realization requires dispelling the misconceptions that lead one to regard his natural skin as unsightly or unclean.

Myth #1: Smegma is dirty.
While it is true that smegma, the white substance that forms beneath the foreskin, can trap bacteria and lead to odors and infection, this situation is easily manageable. A man generally just needs to retract the sheath in the shower and gently wipe the stuff away with his wet fingers. Men who produce a lot of smegma may benefit from wiping it away a few times a day outside the shower as well.

Myth #2: Most guys are cut.
While this is true in the U.S. - about 75% of American men are snipped - worldwide the situation is the different. Only one-third of men around the world are circumcised.

Myth #3: Women hate foreskin.
Women’s preferences cannot be generalized in this way. It is true that some women espouse negative views of the prepuce, but this is likely due to the same misconceptions that lead men to frown upon the layer of skin. Some women actually enjoy it - the process of retracting the foreskin with the hand or lips can be a thrilling extra step, kind of like a strip tease for the head of the penis!

Myth #4: There are clear health benefits of circumcision.
Actually, major health organizations disagree on whether there are enough benefits of circumcision to recommend it. In 2014, the Centers for Disease Control (CDC) made a push to endorse the practice of circumcision; however, the American Academy of Pediatrics disagrees.

Myth #5: Foreskin is ugly.
Says who? It’s important here to understand that conceptions of beauty don’t form in a vacuum. Culture and the images we commonly see (think: porn) influence how we perceive things. This can certainly be a difficult influence to combat, but it is possible. It is not necessary to compare oneself to men in adult videos. Think of the foreskin for what it is: skin. What’s ugly about skin?

Myth #6: There are no benefits to foreskin.
Foreskin provides natural lubrication to the penis, which can be a boon when masturbating or having sex. Also, sliding it over the head during masturbation can provide extra pleasure. Some research suggests that foreskin may improve sensitivity of the head by protecting it from constant friction, but there are also research results to the contrary. Likewise, some researchers think smegma contains anti-bacterial properties, while others disagree.

Men with foreskin have nothing to be ashamed of. Since cultivating positive body image and self-confidence is important for both mental and sexual health, it benefits a man to dispel misconceptions about his body and appreciate what he has.

A man can show his penis appreciation by not only washing it regularly, but using a penis health crème (health professionals recommend Man1 Man Oil) as part of his daily routine. Applying this product after showering can help combat issues with dry skin and/or unwanted odor that some men experience. Vitamin A is a great ingredient to seek out, as it has anti-bacterial properties that can help fight infections and odors. Shea butter and vitamin E are important as well, as they are gentle natural moisturizers. Thinking fondly of one’s endowment is nice, but actually treating it kindly as well is best.

Understanding Smegma - What Is It, and How Does It Affect Penis Health?

Any man who is uncircumcised is familiar with the cheesy, sticky, white or yellowish substance that tends to build up underneath the foreskin. This pasty, often smelly substance - known commonly as smegma -- is generally regarded as unpleasant and dirty. On the other hand, smegma does, in fact, play an important role in penis health, so it is worth learning more about it and understanding its purpose before dismissing it as a source of disgust and embarrassment.

What is smegma, exactly?
The lining of the foreskin secretes a mucousy substance that serves as a lubricant; it is analogous to the tears that lubricate the eyes and prevent the eyelids from sticking to their surface. In the same manner, this mucousy fluid allows the foreskin and glans to slide over each other and protects the glans from irritation. As the foreskin and glans rub together, dead skin cells are shed; because of the presence of the foreskin, they do not fall away, but instead combine with the mucous - as well as sweat and other body fluids - to form the paste that is known as smegma.

In spite of its image as dirty, smegma is actually harmless; in fact, it has antiviral properties that can help to protect the penile tissue. In infants, it is especially important, as it forms a barrier that shields the delicate glans from the harmful effects of urine. On the other hand, while it serves a beneficial purpose, smegma can also cause problems if it is allowed to build up underneath the foreskin; therefore, adequate hygiene measures are needed to prevent these from occurring.

Potential problems caused by smegma build-up
Over time, smegma build-up can cause a variety of problems:

1) When smegma becomes thick, dry and waxy, it can actually cause the foreskin to stick to the glans, rather than allowing them to slide over each other naturally. When the foreskin cannot be retracted over the glans - a condition known as phimosis - men may experience discomfort or even pain during sex.

2) Trapped smegma also provides a haven for bacteria. When these microorganisms take up residence under the foreskin, their presence can trigger an immune system response, leading to swelling of the foreskin, pain, redness and even a smelly discharge. This condition is known as balanitis, and it is responsible for about 1 in 10 visits to sex clinics or urologists by men.

3) While less serious than phimosis or balanitis, built-up smegma can cause a distinctive, foul odor that can be a considerable source of embarrassment. Removing the smegma regularly can reduce this unpleasant, fishy smell.

On the other hand, it is important to point out that the sebaceous glands that produce the mucousy oil actually produce a fishy odor on their own. This smell can be heightened by the hormones that are released during sex; many men report that they notice a strong, fishy odor immediately after sex or masturbation. This is not related to smegma, and it is not easily washed away.

In addition to these problems, there is a widespread perception that the presence of smegma can cause cancer. Researchers have, in fact, discovered a link between smegma and penile cancer; however, it is believed that the smegma itself does not cause cancer. Rather, it is the irritation that occurs when the area under the foreskin is not cleaned carefully that is responsible for the cellular changes that can lead to cancerous tumors.

Proper care for the penis
In order to prevent problems that can occur when smegma is allowed to accumulate under the foreskin, proper hygiene measures are necessary. First, the penis should be washed in warm water every day. The foreskin should be gently retracted (never forced) to expose the glans, and any smegma that is present should be wiped away with the finger tips. The use of very hot water, or of strong soaps or shower gels, is not recommended, because these can deplete the body of its natural lubricating oils; the detergents in ordinary soaps can cause irritation. After washing, the skin should be dried carefully and the foreskin rolled back into place.

Some men choose to use deodorants or fragrances to deal with odors. However, this is not a good idea, as again, the chemicals in these products can cause irritation. On the other hand, use of a good penis health cream (health professionals recommend Man1 Man Oil) that contains vitamin A - a natural antibacterial ingredient - can help to control odors as well as soften and strengthen the skin. A product like this can be applied daily to improve overall penis health.

The Male Foreskin - A Woman s Guide

Although male circumcision is common in the United States, the foreskin is not unknown in America. In much of the world, an intact penis is far more the norm than one which has been cut. However, because some American women, even those with a considerable degree of experience, have not come in close personal contact with a "hooded" penis, their first exposure to one may raise a number of questions for them. Some may wonder how the presence of the male prepuce impacts such matters as appropriate penis health care, penis sensation and sexual performance. To help acclimate these women to the intact penis, following are a few basic facts.

1) It's the same instrument, just with a little extra skin. There's no reason to worry that the intact penis will perform in ways that are substantially different than the circumcised model. All penises enjoy rubbing, kissing, licking, fondling and insertion into pleasurable orifices. The hooded member will react with the same enthusiasm and joi de vivre as the penis that has been altered.

2) The foreskin in an adult male usually is retractable. Although in its flaccid state the foreskin typically covers most of the glans of the penis, by the time most men have achieved adulthood, the foreskin has separated and can be retracted down below the glans. Some intact men prefer to retract the hood when engaging in sexual activity; others prefer to keep the glans covered; and some vary in their preference from one time to the next. When a woman is first exploring the equipment of an intact male, it's generally considered polite to ask the man's preference.

In some cases, a man may find it easier or more comfortable to apply a condom with the skin retracted. If a woman is placing the condom on the member, she should again ask the man's preference, rather than assume he likes it one way or the other.

3) Sometimes retraction is problematic. In some cases, a man may have difficulty retracting the foreskin and doing so may be painful. This usually is referred to as "phimosis," and it refers to the foreskin being so tight or the glans being so swollen that retraction is difficult or impossible. Often this occurs when a minor infection causes the glans to swell up.

4) Some intact men may find the exposed glans more sensitive. Scientifically determining whether the glans of a circumcised or unaltered penis is more sensitive is difficult, if for no other reason than because sensitivity just naturally varies from one man to another. One intact man may find the exposed glans enormously sensitive, while another may find it can take very rough handling with no problem; the same variation is true of circumcised men. However, since the prepuce tends to provide a protective covering for the glans, in some men that may make the exposed glans especially sensitive. Asking in advance and conducting some mutually agreed-upon explorations can let a woman know how her individual intact man feels about this issue.

5) Hygiene is important. Most adult men take the time to properly clean their penises regularly, including underneath the foreskin. Sometimes, however, there may be a build-up under the hood that goes unnoticed by the man. At the appropriate time, it may be a good idea to gently and tactfully let him know about this issue.

As with a circumcised penis, the proper maintenance of a penis with a foreskin should include the regular use of a superior penis health cream (health professionals recommend Man 1 Man Oil). The moisturizing power of a cream loaded with a high end emollient such as Shea butter is especially beneficial for a foreskin that is a little snug. Also, important is to use a cream that is packed with acetyl L carnitine; this ingredient is neuroprotective and is solid at helping to maintain proper penis sensitivity affected by peripheral nerve damage.

The Uncircumcised Penis Debate - Are Woman For or Against?

When it comes to the male anatomy, there are two distinctive ways that the actual penis itself can appear: with or without a foreskin. Sure, a man can try all sorts of tricks to see what makes him look bigger, longer or more attractive, but by the time a man reaches adulthood he is probably pretty used to the equipment that does - or perhaps doesn’t - come with his package. However, even with only two choices out there, the decision on whether or not to circumcise baby boys is one fretted over by many parents. But is there really a strong preference for one over the other? Are women more attracted to an uncut penis than a cut penis, or vice versa? Learn more about the great foreskin debate, as well as how to keep the penis healthy in any form.

What do Women Think?
As with every matter of opinion, there is no single answer that applies to every woman in the world. The U.S. does continue to have a high circumcision rate, and of U.S.-born men, the majority are circumcised at birth. That being said, some of woman’s preferences are certainly culturally based, and they may have never had a face-to-face encounter with an uncircumcised penis. This doesn’t mean they would not like an uncut penis; it just means they have never had the pleasure of trying one out.

Are there advantages or disadvantages to being circumcised?
In the U.S., the reason most people give for having their babies circumcised is hygiene. A circumcised penis is easier to keep clean, does not produce the same buildup of dead skin cells and bacteria (i.e., smegma), and has a lower risk of contracting sexually transmitted infections. Additionally, men who have their foreskin intact tend to have a higher rate of urinary tract infections; whereas men who are cut rarely get UTI’s. Does that mean men who have a foreskin are unclean or dirty? No. It just means they will need to take more care during the shower routine and retract the foreskin to clean under it.

Perhaps the biggest debate regarding the foreskin is whether it increases or decreases sensitivity. The foreskin itself has very few nerve endings, but the glans is jam-packed and therefore extremely sensitive. Men with the foreskin intact make the argument that their penis is more sensitive because the foreskin protects the delicate head of the penis, whereas the uncut penis has no protection and therefore becomes desensitized from friction of clothing and so forth. The only way to know for a man to know for sure what he prefers is to go from being uncut to cut, but he sure will have a hard time reversing that if he prefers the former.

Should a man get circumcised to get more ladies?
There are legitimate reasons to have a circumcision done as an adult - for instance, chronic infection or an inability to retract the foreskin are both situations that put one’s health at risk -- but undergoing surgery as a means to get more women is probably not well-judged. Anytime a person undergoes elective surgery, they are taking on certain risks, so they need to be 100% sure they are doing it for the right reasons. If a man is suffering from severe self-esteem issue or has difficulty becoming intimate with a woman because he is embarrassed about his foreskin, he may want to discuss these fears with a therapist before going ahead with a circumcision - because there may be another cause of the sexual shame. The last thing a man wants is regret for a surgery that is pretty much irreversible!

Keeping the penis clean
Whether or not the penis is circumcised, men need to maintain excellent hygiene to protect their sexual health. Daily showering with soap and water is a necessity, and men with a foreskin need to retract it and wash underneath. Finally, after stepping out of the shower, apply a penis health cream (health professionals recommend Man 1 Man Oil) especially one formulated with vitamin A to help bust odor-causing bacteria - because foreskin or not, any partner would be turned off by a smelly penis.