Difference between revisions of "Preputial sac"

From IntactiWiki
Jump to navigation Jump to search
(→‎Washing: Remove inappropriate paragraph break.)
(→‎Sub-preputial moisture: Delete dead link.)
 
(49 intermediate revisions by 2 users not shown)
Line 1: Line 1:
−
'''{{FULLPAGENAME}}''' is the term applied to the space on the [[intact]] [[penis]] between the [[prepuce]] and the [[glans penis]].<ref>{{REFweb
+
'''{{FULLPAGENAME}}''' is the term applied to the space on the [[foreskinned]] [[penis]] between the [[prepuce]] and the [[glans penis]].<ref>{{REFweb
 
  |url=https://medical-dictionary.thefreedictionary.com/preputial+sac
 
  |url=https://medical-dictionary.thefreedictionary.com/preputial+sac
 
  |title=preputial sac
 
  |title=preputial sac
Line 21: Line 21:
 
  |DOI=https://doi.org/10.1002/ar.1090570409
 
  |DOI=https://doi.org/10.1002/ar.1090570409
 
  |accessdate=2023-05-23
 
  |accessdate=2023-05-23
−
}}</ref> so it cannot be [[Infection| infected]]. The preputial sac will remain closed for a variable number of years.  
+
}}</ref> so it cannot be [[Infection| infected]]. The preputial sac will remain closed for a variable number of years. Thorvaldsen & Meyhoff (2005) conducted a survey of 4000 young men in [[Denmark]]. They reported that the mean age of first [[foreskin]] retraction is 10.4 years in [[Denmark]].<ref name="Thorvaldsen">{{REFjournal
−
 
+
|last=Thorvaldsen
 +
|init=MA
 +
|last2=Meyhoff
 +
|init2=H
 +
|title=Patologisk eller fysiologisk fimose?
 +
|trans-title=Pathological or physiological phimosis?
 +
|language=Danish
 +
|journal=Ugeskr Læger
 +
|volume=167
 +
|issue=17
 +
|pages=1858-1862
 +
|url=http://www.cirp.org/library/normal/thorvaldsen1/
 +
|quote=
 +
|pubmedID=
 +
|pubmedCID=
 +
|DOI=
 +
|date=2005
 +
|accessdate=2025-03-06
 +
}}</ref> Non-retractile [[foreskin]] is the more common condition until about 10-11 years of age.
 +
===Penile health===
 
The preputial sac is lined with [[mucosa]] as is appropriate for an internal organ where moisture is present.<ref name="cold-taylor1999">{{ColdCJ TaylorJR 1999}}</ref> [[Urine]] and other sources of moisture are not harmful to it.
 
The preputial sac is lined with [[mucosa]] as is appropriate for an internal organ where moisture is present.<ref name="cold-taylor1999">{{ColdCJ TaylorJR 1999}}</ref> [[Urine]] and other sources of moisture are not harmful to it.
  
−
The [[glans penis]] (head of the [[penis]]) is covered and protected from friction and abrasion by the [[foreskin]] while it is in the preputial sac, so it does not accumulate [[keratin]], and maintains its [[Foreskin sensitivity| natural sensitivity]].
+
The [[glans penis]] (head of the [[penis]]) is covered and protected from friction, abrasion, [[trauma]], and [[infection]] by the [[foreskin]] while it is in the preputial sac,<ref name="fleiss1998">{{FleissP HodgesF VanHoweRS 1998}}</ref> so it does not accumulate [[keratin]], and maintains its [[Foreskin sensitivity| natural sensitivity]]. It is normal for the [[glans penis]] to be purple in color when the glans has been protected by the [[foreskin]].
  
 
Parkash et al. (1973) reported that epithelial debris [exfoliated skin or mucosa] accumulates in the preputial sac and forms [[smegma]].<ref name="parkash1873">{{REFjournal
 
Parkash et al. (1973) reported that epithelial debris [exfoliated skin or mucosa] accumulates in the preputial sac and forms [[smegma]].<ref name="parkash1873">{{REFjournal
Line 67: Line 86:
 
}}</ref>, a natural, normal, benign, healthy, and beneficial product of the body, which will collect harmlessly in the preputial sac.
 
}}</ref>, a natural, normal, benign, healthy, and beneficial product of the body, which will collect harmlessly in the preputial sac.
  
−
Wetness in the preputial sac is normal and associated with having a longer [[foreskin| prepuce]].<ref name="ofarrell2008">{{REFjournal
+
A longer [[prepuce]] helps to keep out contaminants and pathogens.<ref name="fleiss1998" /> Lakshmanan & Parkash (1980) described the muscle fibers in the [[prepuce]] (known as the [[dartos]]), which contract to keep the prepuce snugly close to the [[glans penis]].<ref>{{REFjournal
 +
|last=Lakshmanan
 +
|first=
 +
|init=S
 +
|author-link=
 +
|last2=Parkash
 +
|first2=
 +
|init2=S
 +
|author2-link=
 +
|etal=no
 +
|title=Human prepuce: some aspects of structure and function
 +
|trans-title=
 +
|language=
 +
|journal=Indian J Surg
 +
|location=
 +
|date=1980
 +
|volume=44
 +
|issue=
 +
|article=
 +
|page=
 +
|pages=134-7
 +
|url=http://www.cirp.org/library/anatomy/lakshmanan/
 +
|archived=
 +
|quote=
 +
|pubmedID=
 +
|pubmedCID=
 +
|DOI=
 +
|accessdate=
 +
}}</ref> The muscle fibers form a whorl at the tip to keep the tip of the [[foreskin]] and keep the preputial sac closed against the outside world and contamination with pathogens.<ref name="fleiss1998" />
 +
 
 +
Cold & Taylor (1999) described a healthy [[microbiome]] that lives within the preputial sac.<ref name="cold-taylor1999" /> They also reported that Langerhans cells are found in the mucosa of the preputial sac. [[Langerhans cells]] are part of the immunological defenses of the [[penis]].
 +
 
 +
De Witte et al. (2007) reported that Langerhans cells produce a substance named ''langerin''. The langerin offers protection against HIV infection:
 +
{{Citation
 +
|Title=Langerin is a natural barrier to HIV-1 transmission by Langerhans cells
 +
|Text=Langerin prevents HIV-1 transmission by LCs. HIV-1 captured by Langerin was internalized into Birbeck granules and degraded. Langerin inhibited LC infection and this mechanism kept LCs refractory to HIV-1 transmission; inhibition of Langerin allowed LC infection and subsequent HIV-1 transmission. Notably, LCs also inhibited T-cell infection by viral clearance through Langerin. Thus Langerin is a natural barrier to HIV-1 infection, and strategies to combat infection must enhance, preserve or, at the very least, not interfere with Langerin expression and function.
 +
|Author=
 +
|Source=
 +
|ref=<ref>{{DeWitte etal 2007}}</ref>
 +
}}
 +
Fendereski et al. (2024) compared the penile health of [[circumcised]] boys without a preputial sac to [[intact]] boys with a preputial sac during the first five years of life. The authors reported that the [[circumcised]] boys had three times as many complaints when compared with [[intact]] boys.<ref name=fendereski2024">{{REFjournal
 +
|last=Fendereski
 +
|first=
 +
|init=K
 +
|author-link=
 +
|last2=Horns
 +
|first2=
 +
|init2=JJ
 +
|author2-link=
 +
|last3=Driggs
 +
|first3=
 +
|init3=N
 +
|author3-link=
 +
|last4=Lau
 +
|first4=
 +
|init4=G
 +
|author4-link=
 +
|last5=Shaeffer
 +
|first5=
 +
|init5=AJ
 +
|author5-link=
 +
|etal=no
 +
|title=Comparing Penile Problems in Circumcised vs. Uncircumcised Boys: Insights From a Large Commercial Claims Database With a Focus on Provider Type Performing Circumcision
 +
|trans-title=
 +
|language=
 +
|journal=J Pediatr Surg
 +
|date=2024-11
 +
|volume=59
 +
|issue=11
 +
|article=161614
 +
|url=https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/abs/pii/S002234682400407X
 +
|archived=
 +
|quote=
 +
|pubmedID=39084960
 +
|pubmedCID=11486584
 +
|DOI=10.1016/j.jpedsurg.2024.06.022
 +
|accessdate=2025-12-03
 +
}}</ref>
 +
=== Sub-preputial moisture ===
 +
A longer [[foreskin]] improves wetness in the preputial sac.<ref name="ofarrell2008">{{REFjournal
 
  |last=O'Farrell  
 
  |last=O'Farrell  
 
  |first=
 
  |first=
Line 125: Line 223:
 
  |volume=16
 
  |volume=16
 
  |issue=3
 
  |issue=3
−
|article=
 
−
|page=
 
 
  |pages=109-12
 
  |pages=109-12
 
  |url=http://www.cirp.org/library/anatomy/prakash/
 
  |url=http://www.cirp.org/library/anatomy/prakash/
Line 135: Line 231:
 
  |DOI=
 
  |DOI=
 
  |accessdate=2022-10-07
 
  |accessdate=2022-10-07
−
}}</ref> The preputial sac may also receive [[pre-ejaculate]]. The authors further reported that the wetness is rich in lytic material.<ref name="parkash1982" /> Lytic material causes lysis or a breakdown of pathogen cell walls.<ref>{{REFweb
+
}}</ref> The authors further reported that the wetness is rich in lytic material.<ref name="parkash1982" /> Lytic material causes lysis or a breakdown of pathogen cell walls.<ref>{{REFweb
 
  |url=https://medical-dictionary.thefreedictionary.com/lytic
 
  |url=https://medical-dictionary.thefreedictionary.com/lytic
 
  |title=Lytic
 
  |title=Lytic
Line 141: Line 237:
 
  |date=2012
 
  |date=2012
 
  |accessdate=2022-10-07
 
  |accessdate=2022-10-07
−
}}</ref> Moistness also may be maintained by [[transudation]].<ref name="cold-taylor1999" /> The sac may vary from very slightly moist to wet.
+
}}</ref> Moistness also may be maintained by [[transudation]].<ref name="cold-taylor1999" /> The preputial sac may also receive [[pre-ejaculate]], which may be distinguished because it is more slippery. The sac may vary from very slightly moist to wet when one is aroused.
  
−
A longer [[prepuce]] helps to keep out contaminants and pathogens.<ref name="fleiss1998">{{FleissP HodgesF VanHoweRS 1998}}</ref> Lakshmanan & Parkash (1980) described the muscle fibers in the [[prepuce]] (known as the [[dartos]]), which contract to keep the prepuce snugly close to the [[glans penis]].<ref>{{REFjournal
+
Nevertheless, some men report dryness in their preputial sac and with their [[glans penis]]. Some men recommend coconut oil and others recommend [[jojoba]] oil.<ref>{{REFweb
−
  |last=Lakshmanan
+
|url=https://supremepenis.com/blog/best-natural-oils-for-penis-skin-care/
 +
|title=Best Natural Oils for Penis Skin Care: Ultimate Guide to Healthy Skin
 +
  |last=Anonymous
 
  |first=
 
  |first=
−
  |init=S
+
  |init=
 
  |author-link=
 
  |author-link=
−
  |last2=Parkash
+
  |publisher=Supreme Penis
−
  |first2=
+
  |date=2025-07-14
−
|init2=S
+
  |accessdate=2025-08-21
−
|author2-link=
+
}}</ref> to moisturize the preputial sac. A few drops, applied once or twice a day, appears to be enough to keep the sac moisturized, lubricated, and comfortable.
−
  |etal=no
 
−
|title=Human prepuce: some aspects of structure and function
 
−
|trans-title=
 
−
|language=
 
−
|journal=Indian J Surg
 
−
|location=
 
−
|date=1980
 
−
|volume=44
 
−
|issue=
 
−
|article=
 
−
|page=
 
−
|pages=134-7
 
−
|url=http://www.cirp.org/library/anatomy/lakshmanan/
 
−
|archived=
 
−
|quote=
 
−
|pubmedID=
 
−
|pubmedCID=
 
−
|DOI=
 
−
|accessdate=
 
−
}}</ref> The muscle fibers form a whorl at the tip to keep the tip of the [[foreskin]] and keep the preputial sac closed against the outside world and contamination.<ref name="fleiss1998" />
 
−
 
 
−
Cold & Taylor (1999) described a healthy [[microbiome]] that lives within the preputial sac.<ref name="cold-taylor1999" /> They also reported that Langerhans cells are found in the mucosa of the preputial sac. [[Langerhans cells]] are part of the immunological defenses of the [[penis]].  
 
  
−
De Witte et al. (2007) reported that Langerhans cells produce a substance named ''langerin''. The langerin offers protection against HIV infection:
 
−
{{Citation
 
−
|Title=Langerin is a natural barrier to HIV-1 transmission by Langerhans cells
 
−
|Text=Langerin prevents HIV-1 transmission by LCs. HIV-1 captured by Langerin was internalized into Birbeck granules and degraded. Langerin inhibited LC infection and this mechanism kept LCs refractory to HIV-1 transmission; inhibition of Langerin allowed LC infection and subsequent HIV-1 transmission. Notably, LCs also inhibited T-cell infection by viral clearance through Langerin. Thus Langerin is a natural barrier to HIV-1 infection, and strategies to combat infection must enhance, preserve or, at the very least, not interfere with Langerin expression and function.
 
−
|Author=
 
−
|Source=
 
−
|ref=<ref>{{DeWitte etal 2007}}</ref>
 
−
}}
 
 
=== Foreskin fragrance ===
 
=== Foreskin fragrance ===
−
The [[foreskin]] produces [[pheromone| pheromones]] that are likely to be present in the preputial sac.<ref name="fleiss1998" /> Some [[foreskinned]] men report a pleasant musky fragrance<ref name="vocabulary2024">{{REFweb
+
The [[foreskin]] produces [[pheromone| pheromones]] that are likely to be present in the preputial sac.<ref name="fleiss1998" /> Many [[foreskinned]] men report a pleasant musky fragrance<ref name="vocabulary2024">{{REFweb
 
  |url=https://www.vocabulary.com/dictionary/musky
 
  |url=https://www.vocabulary.com/dictionary/musky
 
  |title=Musky
 
  |title=Musky
Line 193: Line 261:
 
  |date=
 
  |date=
 
  |accessdate=2024-04-26
 
  |accessdate=2024-04-26
−
}}</ref> from their [[penis]]. Musk is produced by deer to create sexual arousal.<ref name="vocabulary2024" /> The fragrance, when it occurs, is emitted from the preputial sac.
+
}}</ref> <ref>{{REFweb
 +
|url=https://www.reddit.com/r/uncircumcised_talk/comments/1llu8bi/what_does_it_smell_like/
 +
|title=What does it smell like?
 +
|last=Anonymous
 +
|first=
 +
|init=
 +
|author-link=
 +
|publisher=REDDIT
 +
|date=2025-06-27
 +
|accessdate=2025-06-28
 +
}}</ref> from their [[penis]]. Musk is also produced by deer to create sexual arousal.<ref name="vocabulary2024" /> The fragrance, when it occurs, is emitted from the preputial sac.
 +
 
 +
The fragrance may contain stimulating [[pheromone| pheromones]] and is variously characterized. A few find it offensive, but others find it attractive, pleasing, exciting, stimulating, or arousing.<ref name="vocabulary2024" /> <ref>{{REFweb
 +
|url=https://www.reddit.com/r/uncircumcised_talk/comments/1juhht2/scent/
 +
|title=Scent
 +
|last=Anonymous
 +
|first=
 +
|init=
 +
|author-link=
 +
|publisher=REDDIT
 +
|date=
 +
|accessdate=2025-04-09
 +
}}</ref>
  
−
The fragrance may contain stimulating pheromones and is variously characterized. A few find it offensive, but others find it attractive, pleasing, exciting, stimulating, or arousing.<ref name="vocabulary2024" />
+
Some believe that the use of soap in the preputial sac harms the natural [[microbiome]] and increases the strength of the fragrance. The musky foreskin fragrance may be contained by avoiding retraction of the [[foreskin]].
  
−
Some believe that the use of soap in the preputial sac harms the natural microbiome and increases the strength of the fragrance. The musky foreskin fragrance may be contained by avoiding retraction of the [[foreskin]].
+
Several manufacturers offer musk-scented cologne for men.
  
 
==Washing==
 
==Washing==
Line 236: Line 326:
 
The presence of the healthy [[microbiome]], the [[Langerhans cells]], and the lytics in the sub-preputial moisture give the preputial sac strong immunological functions. [[Circumcision]] destroys the preputial sac and its protective immunological functions and makes the patient more vulnerable to [[infection]] throughout life.<ref name="fleiss1998" />
 
The presence of the healthy [[microbiome]], the [[Langerhans cells]], and the lytics in the sub-preputial moisture give the preputial sac strong immunological functions. [[Circumcision]] destroys the preputial sac and its protective immunological functions and makes the patient more vulnerable to [[infection]] throughout life.<ref name="fleiss1998" />
  
−
One frequently hears the advice to wash the preputial sac at least daily to prevent [[infection]]. This advice is outmoded.<ref name="birley1993" /> <ref name="fleiss1998" /> Washing may introduce pathogens into the preputial cavity.<ref name="fleiss1998" /> It also removes the skin oil and protective lytic substances described above. It is better to rinse only as necessary, using only clear warm water.<ref>{{REFbook
+
One frequently hears the advice to wash the preputial sac at least daily to prevent [[infection]]. This advice does not reflect the [[Immunological and protective function of the foreskin| immunological functions]] of the [[foreskin]] and  the need to maintain skin oil to avoid [[balanitis]].<ref name="birley1993" /> <ref name="fleiss1998" /> It is not consistent with medical science, and is outmoded and inaccurate. Washing may introduce pathogens into the preputial cavity.<ref name="fleiss1998" /> It also removes the skin oil and protective lytic substances described above. It is better to rinse only as necessary, using only clear warm water without soap, body wash, or shampoo.<ref>{{REFbook
 
  |last=Bigelow
 
  |last=Bigelow
 
  |first=Jim
 
  |first=Jim
Line 251: Line 341:
 
  |publisher=Hourglass Book Pub
 
  |publisher=Hourglass Book Pub
 
  |isbn=978-0934061223
 
  |isbn=978-0934061223
−
}}</ref> It is customary to wash before and after sex.
+
}}</ref> One or twice a week is sufficient.<ref name="damon2010">{{REFweb
 +
|title=Intact Care of Elderly Men in Nursing Homes
 +
|url=http://www.drmomma.org/2010/05/intact-care-of-elderly-men-in-nursing.html
 +
|archived=
 +
|trans-title=
 +
|language=
 +
|last=Damon
 +
|first=
 +
|init=KL
 +
|author-link=
 +
|publisher=Peaceful Parenting
 +
|website=www.drmomma.org
 +
|date=2010
 +
|accessdate=2023-12-12
 +
|format=
 +
|quote=It is true that nursing programs (and medical school programs) in the [[United States]] have a long way to go in teaching proper [[intact]] care and development.
 +
}}</ref> It also is customary to wash before and after sex.
  
−
If the [[foreskin]] is non-retractable, then a rubber-bulb ear syringe may be used to squirt warm water into the [[foreskin]] to flush it out for an occasional washing. Washing is recommended before and after sex and as desired to remove accumulated [[smegma]].
+
If the [[foreskin]] is non-retractable, then a [https://www.amazon.com/s?k=rubber%20bulb%20ear%20syringe rubber-bulb ear syringe] may be used to squirt warm water into the [[foreskin]] to flush it out for an occasional washing. Washing is recommended before and after sex and as needed to remove accumulated [[smegma]].
  
 
<b>Soap, body wash, and shampoo should not be used inside the preputial sac, because they remove the beneficial skin oil.</b>
 
<b>Soap, body wash, and shampoo should not be used inside the preputial sac, because they remove the beneficial skin oil.</b>
  
−
== Urination==
+
== Urination by foreskinned men==
−
[[Intact]] men sometimes ask, "do I have to retract my [[foreskin]] when I pee?" They may have been heard myths that it is unhealthy to have [[urine]] inside the [[foreskin]], however there is no factual basis for that claim. Urine has a healthy microbiome<ref name="cold-taylor1999" /> when it leaves the urethra and is helpful for flushing out the [[foreskin]] and keeping it clean. Boys by necessity pee through their [[foreskin]] because it does not retract and men with [[phimosis]] also pee through their foreskin because the foreskin does not retract. It does no harm so it is not necessary to pull back when you pee.
 
  
−
Everything in the preputial sac is covered with [[Mucosa| mucosal membrane]] (similar to the inside of your mouth), which likes to be wet, so no damage or threat to health is caused by having urine inside the [[foreskin]]. The sphincter action of the preputial orifice functions as a one way valve, blocking the entry of contaminants and pathogens while allowing the passage of urine.<ref name="fleiss1998" /> The [[urine ]]will help to flush contaminants and pathogens out of the [[foreskin]]. Some individuals may experience [[ballooning of the foreskin]], which is harmless.
+
The text of this section has been relocated to its own article. Please see [[Urination by foreskinned men]].
−
 
 
−
The [[foreskin]] overhang or [[acroposthion]] may be used as a hose nozzle to control and direct the stream. It may help to stretch one's [[foreskin]] out from one's body. One man said, "When I need to pee, I open my fly, pull my foreskin out and give it a tug to get any wrinkles out, then I hold my foreskin with the thumb and forefinger of both hands and use the overhang of my foreskin to direct my stream. When I finish, I milk it a bit to get any residual pee out of my [[urethra]]."
 
−
 
 
−
[[Foreskinned]] men may report feeling a slight tickling sensation as the [[urine]] flows out through their acroposthion.
 
−
 
 
−
One may pull back or not pull back for [[urination]]. Either way is okay.
 
−
 
 
−
===Video===
 
−
A NSFW video of a [[foreskinned]] man urinating through his [[acroposthion]].
 
−
 
 
−
https://www.reddit.com/r/4skinoverhang/comments/15xxkyc/overhang_soft_pee/
 
  
 
{{SEEALSO}}
 
{{SEEALSO}}
 +
* [[Autocircumcision]]
 
* [[Balanitis]]
 
* [[Balanitis]]
 
* [[Care of intact elderly men]]
 
* [[Care of intact elderly men]]
 
* [[Hygiene]]
 
* [[Hygiene]]
 
* [[Immunological and protective function of the foreskin]]
 
* [[Immunological and protective function of the foreskin]]
 +
* [[Jojoba]]
 +
* [[Living with a foreskin in circumcised America]]
 
* [[Meatus]]
 
* [[Meatus]]
 
* [[Microbiome]]
 
* [[Microbiome]]
Line 288: Line 385:
 
* [[Transudation]]
 
* [[Transudation]]
 
* [[Urinary tract infection]]
 
* [[Urinary tract infection]]
 +
 
{{LINKS}}
 
{{LINKS}}
−
* {{REFweb
+
* {{REFweb
 
  |url=https://www.cirp.org/library/hygiene/
 
  |url=https://www.cirp.org/library/hygiene/
 
  |title=Penile hygiene in the intact non-circumcised male
 
  |title=Penile hygiene in the intact non-circumcised male
Line 295: Line 393:
 
  |first=
 
  |first=
 
  |init=
 
  |init=
 +
|author-link=
 
  |publisher=Circumcision Reference Library
 
  |publisher=Circumcision Reference Library
 
  |date=2013
 
  |date=2013
−
  |accessdate=2023-10-31
+
  |accessdate=2025-03-03
 +
}}
 +
* {{REFweb
 +
|url=https://intactamerica.org/intact-penis-care/
 +
|title=Intact Penis Care: Embracing Natural Well-being
 +
|last=Garrett
 +
|first=Connor
 +
|init=
 +
|authorlink=Connor Justin Garrett
 +
|publisher=Intact America
 +
|date=2024-03-09
 +
|accessdate=2024-05-10
 +
}}
 +
* {{REFweb
 +
|url=https://www.reddit.com/user/C4Charkey/comments/1jumg8s/the_accidental_intactivist_manifesto_iii_the/
 +
|title=Section III. The Hygienic Hoax: Soap, Water, and the Ghosts of Victorian Anxiety
 +
|last=C4Charkey
 +
|first=
 +
|init=
 +
|author-link=C4Charkey
 +
|publisher=REDDIT
 +
|date=2025-04-08
 +
|accessdate=2025-04-12
 +
}}
 +
* {{REFweb
 +
|url=https://www.reddit.com/r/uncircumcised_talk/comments/1o8su5n/comment/njy0dyz/
 +
|title=Mom of intact son here (:
 +
|last=Anonymous
 +
|first=
 +
|init=
 +
|author-link=
 +
|publisher=REDDIT
 +
|date=2025-10-17
 +
|accessdate=2025-10-17
 
}}
 
}}
 
{{REF}}
 
{{REF}}
−
 
  
 
[[Category:Education]]
 
[[Category:Education]]
 
[[Category:Foreskin anatomy]]
 
[[Category:Foreskin anatomy]]
 +
[[Category:Foreskinned life]]
 +
[[Category:Medical term]]
 
[[Category:Parental information]]
 
[[Category:Parental information]]
 
[[Category:Penile anatomy]]
 
[[Category:Penile anatomy]]
−
[[Category:Medical term]]
+
[[Category:Physiology]]
 +
 
 +
[[de:Präputialsack]]

Latest revision as of 15:35, 3 December 2025

Preputial sac is the term applied to the space on the foreskinned penis between the prepuce and the glans penis.[1] The preputial sac may also be called the sub-preputial space or preputial cavity. Circumcised men do not have a preputial sac.

Description

When boys are born, the preputial sac is sealed shut by a synechia called the balanopreputial lamina,[2] so it cannot be infected. The preputial sac will remain closed for a variable number of years. Thorvaldsen & Meyhoff (2005) conducted a survey of 4000 young men in Denmark. They reported that the mean age of first foreskin retraction is 10.4 years in Denmark.[3] Non-retractile foreskin is the more common condition until about 10-11 years of age.

Penile health

The preputial sac is lined with mucosa as is appropriate for an internal organ where moisture is present.[4] Urine and other sources of moisture are not harmful to it.

The glans penis (head of the penis) is covered and protected from friction, abrasion, trauma, and infection by the foreskin while it is in the preputial sac,[5] so it does not accumulate keratin, and maintains its natural sensitivity. It is normal for the glans penis to be purple in color when the glans has been protected by the foreskin.

Parkash et al. (1973) reported that epithelial debris [exfoliated skin or mucosa] accumulates in the preputial sac and forms smegma.[6], a natural, normal, benign, healthy, and beneficial product of the body, which will collect harmlessly in the preputial sac.

A longer prepuce helps to keep out contaminants and pathogens.[5] Lakshmanan & Parkash (1980) described the muscle fibers in the prepuce (known as the dartos), which contract to keep the prepuce snugly close to the glans penis.[7] The muscle fibers form a whorl at the tip to keep the tip of the foreskin and keep the preputial sac closed against the outside world and contamination with pathogens.[5]

Cold & Taylor (1999) described a healthy microbiome that lives within the preputial sac.[4] They also reported that Langerhans cells are found in the mucosa of the preputial sac. Langerhans cells are part of the immunological defenses of the penis.

De Witte et al. (2007) reported that Langerhans cells produce a substance named langerin. The langerin offers protection against HIV infection:

“ Langerin is a natural barrier to HIV-1 transmission by Langerhans cells
Langerin prevents HIV-1 transmission by LCs. HIV-1 captured by Langerin was internalized into Birbeck granules and degraded. Langerin inhibited LC infection and this mechanism kept LCs refractory to HIV-1 transmission; inhibition of Langerin allowed LC infection and subsequent HIV-1 transmission. Notably, LCs also inhibited T-cell infection by viral clearance through Langerin. Thus Langerin is a natural barrier to HIV-1 infection, and strategies to combat infection must enhance, preserve or, at the very least, not interfere with Langerin expression and function.[8]

Fendereski et al. (2024) compared the penile health of circumcised boys without a preputial sac to intact boys with a preputial sac during the first five years of life. The authors reported that the circumcised boys had three times as many complaints when compared with intact boys.[9]

Sub-preputial moisture

A longer foreskin improves wetness in the preputial sac.[10] Parkash et al. (1982) studied the wetness to learn its source. The authors concluded "that the space is kept moist and also clean in those with preputial stenosis, by the secretions of the prostate, supplemented by the seminal secretion of the mucin content of the secretion of the urethral glands."[11] The authors further reported that the wetness is rich in lytic material.[11] Lytic material causes lysis or a breakdown of pathogen cell walls.[12] Moistness also may be maintained by transudation.[4] The preputial sac may also receive pre-ejaculate, which may be distinguished because it is more slippery. The sac may vary from very slightly moist to wet when one is aroused.

Nevertheless, some men report dryness in their preputial sac and with their glans penis. Some men recommend coconut oil and others recommend jojoba oil.[13] to moisturize the preputial sac. A few drops, applied once or twice a day, appears to be enough to keep the sac moisturized, lubricated, and comfortable.

Foreskin fragrance

The foreskin produces pheromones that are likely to be present in the preputial sac.[5] Many foreskinned men report a pleasant musky fragrance[14] [15] from their penis. Musk is also produced by deer to create sexual arousal.[14] The fragrance, when it occurs, is emitted from the preputial sac.

The fragrance may contain stimulating pheromones and is variously characterized. A few find it offensive, but others find it attractive, pleasing, exciting, stimulating, or arousing.[14] [16]

Some believe that the use of soap in the preputial sac harms the natural microbiome and increases the strength of the fragrance. The musky foreskin fragrance may be contained by avoiding retraction of the foreskin.

Several manufacturers offer musk-scented cologne for men.

Washing

Birley et al. (1993) studied 43 men with recurrent or persistent balanitis at an outpatient genitourinary disease clinic in London, UK where most men are intact. Of the study group only 33 percent were circumcised. Birley and colleagues discovered that the men in that group washed frequently with soap. The men were instructed to wash less frequently, to stop using soap, and to treat with emollients. The soap and shower gel apparently removed the natural skin oil, which appears to be essential for health of the mucosa of the preputial sac.[17]

Fleiss, Hodges & Van Howe (1998) reported the presence of cathepsin B, lysosyme, chymotrypsin, neutrophil elastase, and cytokine in the sub-preputial moisture. These substances have a destructive lytic effect on pathogens and make the preputial sac a trap for disease-causing organisms.[5]

The presence of the healthy microbiome, the Langerhans cells, and the lytics in the sub-preputial moisture give the preputial sac strong immunological functions. Circumcision destroys the preputial sac and its protective immunological functions and makes the patient more vulnerable to infection throughout life.[5]

One frequently hears the advice to wash the preputial sac at least daily to prevent infection. This advice does not reflect the immunological functions of the foreskin and the need to maintain skin oil to avoid balanitis.[17] [5] It is not consistent with medical science, and is outmoded and inaccurate. Washing may introduce pathogens into the preputial cavity.[5] It also removes the skin oil and protective lytic substances described above. It is better to rinse only as necessary, using only clear warm water without soap, body wash, or shampoo.[18] One or twice a week is sufficient.[19] It also is customary to wash before and after sex.

If the foreskin is non-retractable, then a rubber-bulb ear syringe may be used to squirt warm water into the foreskin to flush it out for an occasional washing. Washing is recommended before and after sex and as needed to remove accumulated smegma.

Soap, body wash, and shampoo should not be used inside the preputial sac, because they remove the beneficial skin oil.

Urination by foreskinned men

The text of this section has been relocated to its own article. Please see Urination by foreskinned men.

See also

External links

References

  1. ↑ REFweb (2012). preputial sac, The Free Dictionary by Farlex. Retrieved 7 October 2022.
  2. ↑ REFjournal Deibart GA. The separation of the prepuce in the human penis. Anat Rec. 1933; 57: 387-99. DOI. Retrieved 23 May 2023.
  3. ↑ REFjournal Thorvaldsen MA, Meyhoff H. Patologisk eller fysiologisk fimose? [Pathological or physiological phimosis?] (Danish). Ugeskr Læger. 2005; 167(17): 1858-1862. Retrieved 6 March 2025.
  4. ↑ a b c REFjournal Cold CJ, Taylor JR. The prepuce. BJU Int. January 1999; 83, Suppl. 1: 34-44. PMID. DOI. Retrieved 8 July 2021.
  5. ↑ a b c d e f g h REFjournal Fleiss P, Hodges F, Van Howe RS. Immunological functions of the human prepuce. Sex Trans Infect. October 1998; 74(5): 364-67. PMID. PMC. DOI. Retrieved 14 January 2022.
  6. ↑ REFjournal Parkash S, Jayakumar S, Subramanyan K, Chaudhuri S. Human subpreputial collection: its nature and formation.. J. Urol.. August 1973; 110(2): 111-2. PMID. DOI. Retrieved 7 October 2022.
  7. ↑ REFjournal Lakshmanan S, Parkash S. Human prepuce: some aspects of structure and function. Indian J Surg. 1980; 44: 134-7.
  8. ↑ REFjournal de Witte L, Nabatov A, Pion M, Fluitsma D, de Jong MAWP, de Gruijl T, Piguet V, van Kooyk Y, Geijtenbeek TBH. Langerin is a natural barrier to HIV-1 transmission by Langerhans cells PDF. Nature Medicine. 4 March 2007; 13(3): 367-71. PMID. PMC. DOI. Retrieved 6 October 2022.
  9. ↑ REFjournal Fendereski K, Horns JJ, Driggs N, Lau G, Shaeffer AJ. Comparing Penile Problems in Circumcised vs. Uncircumcised Boys: Insights From a Large Commercial Claims Database With a Focus on Provider Type Performing Circumcision. J Pediatr Surg. November 2024; 59(11): [161614]. PMID. PMC. DOI. Retrieved 3 December 2025.
  10. ↑ REFjournal O'Farrell N, Chung CK, Weiss, Helen. Foreskin length in uncircumcised men is associated with subpreputial wetness. Int J STD AIDS.. December 2008; 19(23): 821-3. PMID. DOI. Retrieved 7 October 2022.
  11. ↑ a b REFjournal Parkash S, Raghuram R, Venkatesan K, Ramakrishnan S. Sub-preputial wetness - Its nature. Ann Nat Med Sci (India). July 1982; 16(3): 109-12. Retrieved 7 October 2022.
  12. ↑ REFweb (2012). Lytic, The Free Dictionary by Farlex. Retrieved 7 October 2022.
  13. ↑ REFweb Anonymous (14 July 2025). Best Natural Oils for Penis Skin Care: Ultimate Guide to Healthy Skin, Supreme Penis. Retrieved 21 August 2025.
  14. ↑ a b c REFweb Musky, vocabulary.com. Retrieved 26 April 2024.
  15. ↑ REFweb Anonymous (27 June 2025). What does it smell like?, REDDIT. Retrieved 28 June 2025.
  16. ↑ REFweb Anonymous. Scent, REDDIT. Retrieved 9 April 2025.
  17. ↑ a b REFjournal Birley HDL, Walker MM, Luzzi GA, Bell R, et al. Clinical Features and management of recurrent balanitis; association with atopy and genital washing] PDF. Genitourin Med. October 1993; 69(5): 400-3. PMID. PMC. DOI. Retrieved 9 October 2022.
  18. ↑ REFbook Bigelow, Jim (1994): The Reputation of the Foreskin in America, in: The Joy of Uncircumcising!: Exploring Circumcision: History, Myths, Psychology, Restoration, Sexual Pleasure, and Human Rights. Edition: 2. Hourglass Book Pub. Pp. 74. ISBN 978-0934061223.
  19. ↑ REFweb Damon KL (2010). Intact Care of Elderly Men in Nursing Homes, www.drmomma.org, Peaceful Parenting. Retrieved 12 December 2023.
    Quote: It is true that nursing programs (and medical school programs) in the United States have a long way to go in teaching proper intact care and development.
Retrieved from "https://en.intactiwiki.org/w/index.php?title=Preputial_sac&oldid=44105"