Paraphimosis is a problem that can occur in an uncircumcised or partly circumcised child or adult. It's when the foreskin of the penis is pulled back and won’t return to the forward position. This causes the tissues to swell. It can become severe enough to stop blood flow to the head of the penis.
If the healthcare provider can't manually correct this problem, a surgical procedure may be done to release the foreskin. Either a dorsal slit incision or a full circumcision is the surgery used. After the procedure, some swelling is normal during the first few days. A clear or reddish crust will likely form over the area. It normally takes 7 to 10 days for the penis to heal after this surgery.
Home care
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No baths during the first 2 days. Just clean the penis daily with water. (For infants, clean the penis with each diaper change.)
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After the first 2 days, bathe normally with soap and water. (For infants, clean with each diaper change for the first week.)
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Understand if and when the healthcare provider wants you to start retracting the foreskin again.
Follow-up care
Schedule an appointment with your child's healthcare provider in the next 2 days for a wound check, or as advised. If the paraphimosis was manually reduced without surgery, talk with the provider about ways to prevent it from happening again.
When to get medical advice
Call your child's healthcare provider if any of these occur:
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Blood stain in the diaper larger than a quarter
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Redness or swelling of the penis
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Pain with peeing
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Pus or fluid draining from the incision
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Fever of 100.4°F (38°C) oral or 101.4°F (38.5°C) rectal or higher, or as advised by the provider
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Reduced urine flow
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Vomiting
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You're worried about your child's penis or are unsure of the correct care
