Prepuce gets a bad rap in American culture, but there are several positive things about it. It provides a layer of natural protection between the sensitive manhood head and clothing; it produces natural lubrication for the male organ; some partners greatly enjoy the process of “undressing” the head of the organ by retracting the prepuce over the head with lips or hands. While surgery is not necessary for a healthy male organ, there are some unique problems that can occur in uncut men, and guys should be aware of them both in order to identify and prevent them. The following prepuce problems, and the male organ care steps to remedy them, are important for all intact men to know.

Balanitis

Balanitis is a condition broadly characterized by inflammation of the prepuce, sometimes accompanied by inflammation of the head. It can be caused by several things. Most often, it refers to an infection created by improper hygiene. Smegma, the white substance that builds up under the prepuce, attracts bacteria and can cause infection if not wiped away on a regular basis (usually, once a day while showering). Proper hygiene is both the prevention and typical treatment course.

Another type of infection that can lead to prepuce/head swelling is candidiasis (yeast infection). In men, this usually occurs among diabetics or those who have unprotected sensual activity with an infected woman. In the former case, managing diabetes effectively is the best prevention protocol, and in the latter, protected activity serves to prevent yeast infections. Treatment involves use of an antifungal cream. If contracted from a partner, both partners should be treated simultaneously to prevent a resurgence.

Finally, aggressive sensual activity or solo play can lead to swelling of the prepuce and head. Giving the member a break can speed recovery, and using more lubrication next time may help prevent a recurrence.

Phimosis

Phimosis is marked by the inability to retract the prepuce, usually because of infections and scarring. The latter may result from infections due to improper hygiene. Medicated creams may be prescribed to correct the problem.

During adolescence and the teenage years, the prepuce generally becomes unattached from the head of the male organ. Rarely, the adhesions that attach the prepuce and head at birth don’t wear away normally, and medical intervention is required. Stretching exercises may be of assistance in naturally retracting the prepuce.

Paraphimosis

The male organ can become injured in such a way that the prepuce gets trapped below the head of the male organ. If stuck in this position, the prepuce may cut off blood flow to the head of the male organ, constituting a medical emergency. Going to the emergency room is called for in this situation to prevent serious, permanent damage. Avoiding super-aggressive sensual activity and odd thrusting angles can help prevent it.

Prepuce Entrapment

When the male organ is soft, the prepuce is baggy and often wrinkly. This renders it susceptible to being caught in fly zippers. While this may sound like a silly way to get injured, it can be significantly painful and often requires medical attention to remove the skin from the zipper’s teeth. Men can lessen the likelihood of this occurring by wearing undergarments and practicing caution when zipping and unzipping (sliding one hand between the pants and the undergarments is a good way to go).

Caring for the prepuce is generally not difficult. Guys need to retract it gently and wash away smegma regularly; using just warm water, or warm water plus a very mild cleanser, while wiping the smegma away with the fingers is a simple task. Men can boost their manhood care regimens by using a male organ health crème (health professionals recommend Man1 Man Oil) that keeps the skin moisturized, supple and retractable. In addition, a crème with vitamin A can help combat bacteria that promote odors and infections. There’s nothing wrong with prepuce, so long as a man takes proper care of what he has.

Visit http://www.menshealthfirst.com for additional information on most common male organ health issues, tips on improving organ sensitivity and what to do to maintain a healthy member. John Dugan is a professional writer who specializes in men's health issues and is an ongoing contributing writer to numerous websites.