Paraphimosis

Paraphimosis is a condition in which the skin that normally folds over the penis—the foreskin—tightens and retracts, and cannot return to its normal position over the head of the penis. If not corrected, the penis will swell, and the blood flow to the head of the penis may be cut off, damaging the tissue.

Paraphimosis is caused by inflammation or infection of the foreskin, and may be linked with poor personal hygiene. Paraphimosis can only occur in uncircumcised men. Treatment may include circumcision and antibiotics.

Current as of: February 11, 2020

Author: Healthwise Staff

Medical Review: William H. Blahd, Jr., MD, FACEP - Emergency Medicine & Adam Husney, MD - Family Medicine & David Messenger, BSc, MD, FRCPC, FCCP - Emergency Medicine, Critical Care Medicine

Healthwise
Search the
Healthwise Knowledgebase
Help
Healthwise Index

This information does not replace the advice of a doctor. Healthwise, Incorporated, disclaims any warranty or liability for your use of this information. Your use of this information means that you agree to the Terms of Use. Learn how we develop our content.

To learn more about Healthwise, visit Healthwise.org.

© 1995-2020 Healthwise, Incorporated. Healthwise, Healthwise for every health decision, and the Healthwise logo are trademarks of Healthwise, Incorporated.