The foreskin is a thin flap of skin that covers the tip of the penis, protecting it from friction during everyday activities like walking, running, and cycling. It can also help keep your penis clean and moisturized. However, many people choose to remove this part of their anatomy because they think it looks better without it or because they believe it prevents problems such as erectile dysfunction or urinary tract infections. But there are plenty of reasons why you might want to keep your foreskin. Here are seven things that could happen if you decide to leave yours alone.
1) Increased sensitivity
Your foreskin acts as a kind of gliding mechanism during intercourse, which can make your partner's movements more pleasurable for both of you. Some men report that having an intact foreskin feels much better than being circumcised, especially when trying new positions or using different lube. If you do decide to have sex after getting a circumcision, you may need to experiment with different techniques until you find something that works for you both.
2) Less risk of STIs
While it's true that removing the foreskin reduces your chances of catching certain STDs, such as HIV and herpes, some studies suggest that those who are circumcised actually have higher rates of other infections, including syphilis and gonorrhea. This may be due in part to reduced natural lubrication and increased dryness. You should always use protection regardless of whether you're circumcised or not.
3) Fewer health issues
The majority of men don't experience any problems from keeping their foreskins intact. However, if you do develop an issue like phimosis (when the foreskin is too tight), balanitis (inflammation of the head of the penis), or paraphimosis (where the foreskin becomes stuck behind the head), leaving the foreskin on allows your doctor to treat these conditions without cutting into your skin. It also means there's less chance of complications like bleeding or scarring during surgery.
4) Better urinary flow
Some research suggests that guys who were circumcised as adults tend to have weaker urine streams than those who weren't. And while most people can get by just fine without this particular benefit, it could make life more convenient when you're out and about.
5) Lowered risk of prostate cancer
Men who keep their foreskins may be less likely to develop prostate cancer later in life. One study found that those with a history of frequent sexually transmitted infections were at greater risk for developing prostate cancer—but only if they had been circumcised. So if you want to protect yourself against this type of cancer, leave your foreskin alone.
6) Reduced pain during masturbation
Many men find that touching themselves feels better with a foreskin because it creates friction between the glans and shaft of the penis, which leads to orgasmic pleasure. Circumcised guys often report feeling less sensation overall, though some say it doesn't bother them much once they adjust to the change. If you don't mind losing a bit of sensitivity, it might not matter either way.
7) Greater fertility
There is no evidence to suggest that circumcision affects male fertility directly, but some studies have linked it to lower sperm counts and motility (the ability of sperm to swim). So if you're trying to conceive, leaving your foreskin intact could give you an edge.
Overall, there are pros and cons to both sides of the debate surrounding foreskin removal. Ultimately, it comes down to personal preference and what feels right for you. Talk to your doctor about your options before making any decisions so you can weigh all the factors involved and make an informed choice.