Advice

Advice and Alternatives:

Men | Teenagers | Parents | Media

For Men

We are able to offer help for men who are experiencing problems with their foreskin and wish to avoid circumcision.

The advice that we give is tailored to preserving the foreskin where possible.

We can also support and advise circumcised men who want to restore their foreskin using non-surgical techniques. For men who want to keep their foreskin, circumcision should be the last course of treatment for a problem foreskin.

We have three booklets available to order.

The first, Alternatives to circumcision, uses non-technical language to describe the techniques that can alleviate most problems of the foreskin.

The second booklet, Clinical guidelines for the management of phimosis, provides advice and guidance for medical professionals.

The third is a fact sheet on the management of a foreskin condition known as Lichen Sclerosus/BXO. Balinitis xerotica obliterans has been referred to as “true phimosis”. Most UK doctors state that it is a reason for circumcision and will refer the patient to a surgeon.

The booklets we provide gives information on less invasive treatments which are often available.

The advice that we give may sometimes indicate a need to operate, but where possible we will advise on less invasive surgeries.

You can order either of these booklets from us using the contact form, or you can find further advice for circumcised men.

For Teenagers

We receive many enquiries from teenage boys about the function and care of the foreskin. If this is you, we can refer you to a qualified doctor who can offer you advice confidentially.

If you are worried about your foreskin or have any questions about issues relating to circumcision.

Feel free to get in touch using our contact form.

For Parents

We often get questions from parents asking how they can best care for their infant’s genitals.

The normal intact penis needs no special care. There are two simple pieces of advice. When washing, avoid direct contact with soap and avoid excessive use of bubble baths and gels.

The foreskin is a delicate structure so that even a well-meaning adult can easily damage this part of the anatomy. The only person who should attempt to retract a child’s foreskin is the child himself.

If you have other questions, please feel free to get in touch.

For the Media

We are able to provide resources for media including video and audio content, interviews, interviewees, facts, and figures. Additionally, we have access to some journals and articles available upon request for those requiring access for research purposes.

Please use our contact form to get in touch any press enquires should go through this form.

If you would like to learn more about this subject you can also find resources on the CIRP library.

Helplines And Support Groups

The NHS Choices website lists the following helplines and support networks for people to talk to if they need help.

Samaritans (116 123) operates a 24-hour service available every day of the year. If you prefer to write down how you’re feeling, or if you’re worried about being overheard on the phone, you can email Samaritans at jo@samaritans.org.
Childline (0800 1111) runs a helpline for children and young people in the UK. Calls are free and the number won’t show up on your phone bill.
PAPYRUS (0800 068 41 41) is an organisation supporting teenagers and young adults who are feeling suicidal.
Mind (0300 123 3393) is a charity based in England providing advice and support to empower anyone experiencing a mental health problem. They campaign to improve services, raise awareness and promote understanding.
Students Against Depression is a website for students who are depressed, have a low mood or are having suicidal thoughts.
Bullying UK is a website for both children and adults affected by bullying.
Young Persons Advisory Service – Providing mental health and emotional wellbeing services for Liverpool’s children, young people and families. tel: 0151 707 1025 email: support@ypas.org.uk
Hub Of Hope – There’s always somebody to talk to…
Talking to someone could be the start of you getting better
Rehab 4 Addiction – Was founded to assist those affected by substance misuse and their loved ones. We offer a range of services and help signpost you to the most effective treatments. This includes alcohol rehab, drug rehab, detox services, intervention, aftercare and outpatient counselling. The helpline advisors are committed to helping you in your quest to locate effective treatments for addiction.