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Mast mammals have a foreskins. The [[foreskin]] evolved over millions of years to provide protection in difficult evironments against [[trauma]] and [[infection]]. The various protections described in this article work best when the foreskin is of sufficient length to securely cover and protect the [[penis]] at all times with the tip of the foreskin puckered closed by the [[dartos]] fascia to protect against entry of irritants and pathogens. Urine has a healthy microbiome<ref name="cold-taylor1999">{{ColdCJ TaylorJR 1999}}</ref> when it leaves the urethra and is helpful for flushing out the [[foreskin]] and keeping it clean.
Many ill-informed sources will advise [[foreskinned]] men to retract their [[foreskin]] and wash their [[penis]] at least daily. This advice ignores the findings of medical science. <ref name="birley1993" /> Retraction of the foreskin provides an opportunity for pathogens to enter. Washing removes the protective substances found in the [[preputial sac]].
Washing with warm water is recommended before and after a sexual encounter and as necessary to remove accumulated [[smegma]]. The use of soap, body wash, and shampoo in the [[preputial sac]] should be avoided.