Infant Phimosis

 In most infants, the foreskin is naturally adhered to the glans (head) of the penis at birth, and this is a completely normal anatomical condition. The separation of the foreskin from the glans is a gradual process that can take several years.

Typical Timeline of Foreskin Separation:

• At birth: In about 96%–99% of newborn males, the foreskin is still fused to the glans.
• By age 1: Around 50% of boys may still have the foreskin attached.
• By age 3: About 10%–20% still have non-retractable foreskins due to natural adhesion.
• By age 5–7: Most boys (~90%) have a foreskin that is at least partially retractable.
• By puberty (age 12–16): Nearly all boys (~99%) will have complete separation and retractability of the foreskin.

Key Notes:

• This process is natural and should not be rushed.
• No retraction should be attempted by caregivers or medical personnel in infants or young children—it can cause pain, bleeding, or scarring.
• The term for this natural condition is physiologic phimosis, and it is not a medical problem unless it causes symptoms like infection or urination issues.

If you’re caring for an infant or child, the general guideline is to clean only what is visible—gently washing the external penis with water—and allow the foreskin to separate on its own over time.