Changes

The [[foreskin]], like the eyelid, also serves an important protective and hygienic function. The [[foreskin]] protects the delicate [[glans]] of the [[penis]] and puts the [[urethra]] at a distance from its environment, protecting it from foreign pathogens and contaminants and pathogens of all kinds while simultaneously shielding the [[penis]] from injury. It is a double fold of [[skin]] which offers two layers of protection to prevent [[keratinization]] and maintain sensitivity.

Together, these properties prevent the entry of pathogens and contaminants.<ref name="fleiss-hodges-vanhowe1998">{{FleissP HodgesF VanHoweRS 1998}}</ref> The [[foreskin]] protects the infant [[glans penis]] from ammonia in diapers (nappies) and prevents meatal ulcer and [[meatal stenosis]].<ref>{{GairdnerDM 1949}}</ref> <ref name="vanhowe2006">{{REFjournal

In comparison, due to the open wounds and raw [[bleeding]] fleshin a diaper, the [[circumcised]] [[penis]] needs much more care after [[circumcision]]. The surgically externalized [[glans ]] is dirty rather then clean because of constant exposure to dirt, abrasion , pathogens, and contaminants.<ref name="vanhowe1997">{{REFjournal

}}</ref> [[Circumcised]] boys are also found to be more likely to develop [[balanitis]], [[meatitis]], [[Skin bridge| coronal adhesions]], and [[meatal stenosis]].<ref name="vanhowe1997"/>

Excessive After retraction commences, excessive washing and the use of soap inside the [[foreskin]] should be avoided.<ref name="birley1993">{{REFjournal