Your Complete Guide to Little Boys’ Penis Health
There are many parenting curveballs to be faced as a mother of a boy. Some of them are cute, like the first time your son calls you “mama,” or when he gives you a gummy grin, and others can be a bit more confusing. What is one of the most confusing and awkward areas for mums? Penis health.
It’s natural to have some questions if you haven’t grown up with brothers, or if you haven’t cared for a man’s penis before (except your partner’s), but it’s also normal if you haven’t. When it comes to young boys or baby boys, the penis is not just about hygiene. It’s also about knowing what’s normal and what’s wrong, as well as how to help them develop with confidence.
We spoke with Dr Elysia Benko, an experienced GP, women’s and children’s health specialist, to answer some of the questions that mums often ask. She gave clear, easy-to-understand advice backed up by medical expertise and common sense.
Let’s get started.
1. Should I Circumcise My Baby Boy?
Let’s begin with the big one. Circumcision–whether or not to do it–is one of the most debated parenting decisions. Dr Thornton Benko and other medical professionals agree that circumcision is not necessary unless you have a cultural, religious, or medical reason to do so.
Dr Thornton Benko says that there are studies that show circumcision can reduce the risk of acquiring sexually transmitted diseases. “But I think that now, from a medical standpoint, what doctors are recommending is to leave things alone.”
If your boy is healthy, and you are unsure if circumcision would be “better,” then the evidence suggests that it is perfectly okay not to circumcise. Most health organizations–including the Royal Australasian College of Physicians–do not recommend routine circumcision.
It’s also valid if you’re doing it because of your family tradition or religious beliefs. Speak to your doctor to ensure the procedure is done safely and in appropriate conditions.
2. How Do I Clean My Baby Boy’s Penis?
Ah, bathtime. Bathtime is both adorable and messy. Do you have a specific routine for your son’s private areas?
“Keep it clean,” advises Dr Thornton Benko. It’s not harmful to use warm water and a small amount of hypoallergenic or sorbolene-based wash.
What is the most important thing to remember? The best thing to do is to be gentle. No need to use antibacterial or heavy-duty products. These products can do more harm than benefit by disrupting natural bacterial balances or causing chemical irritation.
For babies still in diapers, frequent changing and the use of barrier creams based on zinc oxide are essential to prevent rashes and irritation.
There’s no need to pull back the foreskin if your child has not been circumcised. Next, we’ll talk about that.
3. What if the Testicles of a Baby Boy’s Testicles are Too Large or Small?
It’s one of those questions that parents think about, but are hesitant to ask. It’s perfectly normal for boys to have testicles that are a little… outsized.
Dr Thornton-Benko says, “No, it doesn’t.” Everyone is different. As children and babies develop, things will become more apparent. “They do seem big, though… Newborns often have large testicles in comparison to the penis, for example.”
This “larger” look is often due to the hormones that were exposed during pregnancy. Fluid retention (hydrocele), or swelling after delivery, can temporarily change the appearance of the scrotum.
It’s not usually a cause for concern unless there is noticeable pain, redness, or if a testicle seems to disappear completely (we will discuss this in question 5). When in doubt, consult your GP during your baby’s routine health check.
4. When (and how) Should Foreskins Retract?
Foreskin Retraction is one of the most misunderstood aspects of penis health. Here’s how to gently handle it.
Dr Thornton Benko says that the foreskin of newborn babies is often difficult to retract. Over time, it becomes easier. The key is to not forcefully retract the penis or do anything else with it.
It is important to do this. Forcing back the foreskin can lead to tearing, pain, and scarring. This could cause long-term problems. Let nature take its course. Most foreskins begin to loosen up and retract on their own over time. This usually happens between the ages of 5 and 10.
Dr Thornton Benko says that some boys begin to show partial retractions around the age of two. It’s safe to guide them gently in basic hygiene practices at this age, but only under supervision.
She says that as they get older and reach primary school, they will be able to become more independent. It is important to teach your child body autonomy and self-care.
5. What if I Can’t Feel One (or both) Testicles?
Parents have all experienced the panic that comes with a bath or nappy change: “Wait! Wasn’t this one yesterday?” !”
Undescended testicles can be found in 3% to 30% of boys who are full term and in up to 50% of premature babies. They can sometimes descend by themselves within the first few weeks of life. If you haven’t felt both testicles after six months, then it’s best to consult your GP.
“If you feel only one or zero, but have the scrotal pouch, you should see your doctor,” confirms Dr Thornton Benko.
Testicle checks are part of postnatal examinations–typically on day two or three, and again at six weeks. Testicles may retract temporarily in response to stimulation or cold (a reflex known as the cremasteric reaction), so do not panic if they aren’t visible for a few seconds. Warm baths may help you observe, but if the absence contains uses, then it is important to see a doctor.
6. When Should Boys Wipe After a Wee?
This is a good question, and one that’s often not asked. Why shouldn’t the same be done for boys?
Dr Thornton Benko explains that “in the younger age groups, they will often have that little bit of urine that then-from that dribble-goes onto their underwear.” This increases the chance of a chemical irritation.
Her take? I don’t understand why there couldn’t be just a little dab of oil at the end, and we would then be done.
Encouraging your little boy to gently dab with tissue after urinating can help prevent dampness, rashes, and discomfort–especially in warmer climates or if he has sensitive skin. Normalizing hygiene is important, even if boys resist it at first.
7. What if My Son’s Penis Looks Red or Swollen?
In many cases, redness or swelling can be managed at home, but not always.
Dr Thornton Benko says, “Well, it is very common.” “A tiny bit of redness that doesn’t interfere with urinating… You can probably sit on it for a whole day.”
This may be mild irritation for younger boys who are still using nappies. The best way to combat this is to increase airflow, use barrier cream, and change diapers frequently.
If the redness persists, if the swelling gets worse, or if you notice that your child is in pain, has difficulty peeing, or is running a fever, then it’s best to consult a physician. Treatment may be needed for conditions like balanitis, an inflammation of the head or penis.
Do not hesitate to seek professional advice if you feel that something is wrong.
8. What Should I do If My Son is Hit in the Testicles by a Ball?
Oof. The dreaded blow. This is common, especially when your child begins to run, climb, jump, or play rough with friends or siblings.
When is a bump to the testicles a bu, mp and when is something more serious?
Dr Thornton Benko says, “It all depends on the impact.” If there are any bruises or swellings, you should seek medical attention.
She suggests that you monitor your child carefully after an incident. Watch out for:
- Pain that persists or increases
- Visible bruising and swelling
- Reluctance or unwillingness to sit down or walk
- Pain lasting more than 30 minutes
- After the impact, nausea or vomiting may occur
A trip to the emergency room is recommended in these situations. Testicular torsion, a serious but rare condition in which the testicle twists, will be assessed by a medical professional. This requires immediate treatment.
If your child shows no signs and no visible damage, they will recover quickly.
A little rest and cuddling might be just what you need.
It Should Not Be Taboo
The joys and mysteries of raising boys are unique to the experience of raising boys. When it comes to your son’s penis and testicle, you should stay informed, calm and connected.
Never be embarrassed to ask your physician a question, whether it is about hygiene, circumcision, or if you are just wondering if “something looks right”. The well-being of your child and your peace of mind are always worth the talk.
Remember that normal can take many forms. Each child grows at his or her rate. We become more knowledgeable and confident the more we discuss these topics, not just with our children but also with ourselves.
