Gliding action

From IntactiWiki
Revision as of 00:30, 17 November 2022 by WikiModEn2 (talk | contribs) (The circumcised penis: Wikify.)
Jump to navigation Jump to search

The term "Gliding action" is used to describe the way the foreskin moves during sexual intercourse. The foreskin is internally lubricated with body fluid, so it glides frictionlessly over the shaft and inner layer of foreskin. This mechanism was described by Lakshamanan & Prakash (1980), stating that "[t]he outer layer of the prepuce in common with the skin of the shaft of the penis glides freely in a to and fro fashion..."[1]

The foreskinned, intact penis

Several people have argued that the gliding movement of the foreskin is important during sexual intercourse. Warren & Bigelow (1994) state that gliding action would help to reduce the effects of vaginal dryness and that restoration of the gliding action is an important advantage of foreskin restoration.[2] O'Hara (2002) describes the gliding action, stating that it reduces friction during sexual intercourse, and suggesting that it adds "immeasurably to the comfort and pleasure of both parties".[3] Taylor (2000) suggests that the gliding action, where it occurs, may stimulate the nerves of the ridged band,[4] and speculates (2003) that the stretching of the frenulum by the rearward gliding action during penetration triggers ejaculation.[5] When the foreskin glides, all of the skin of the penis moves, so stimulation of the Meissner's corpuscles in the skin occurs over the whole length of the penis.[6]

Taves (2002) reported that the presence and motion of the foreskin greatly reduces the force required for intromission of the penis into the vagina.[7]

The circumcised penis

Removal of the foreskin permanently exposes the glans penis, tightens the shaft skin and reduces or eliminates gliding action. It also results in keratinization or callousing of the glans penis because of chafing and abrasion from clothing, leading to loss of sensation. Removal of the foreskin can lead to trauma of the penis (friction irritation) during masturbation due to the loss of the gliding action of the foreskin and greater friction, requiring the need of artificial lubrication. During sex, the loss of gliding action is also thought to cause pain, dryness, and trauma to the vagina of the female partner.[2] The trauma and abrasions of the vagina can lead to easier entry of sexually transmitted diseases.[8]

One study showed that the loss of the foreskin resulted in decreased masturbatory pleasure and sexual enjoyment.[9]

The restored penis

Non-surgical foreskin restoration by tissue expansion increases skin mobility, restores the gliding action, and improves sexual function.

See also

External links