Phimosis can occur naturally. For example, in boys younger than age 4, it is normally hard to pull back the foreskin. However, in older boys and men, phimosis often is triggered by an infection under the foreskin (balanitis) or by other medical conditions such as diabetes.

What is the reason for phimosis?

Adult phimosis may be caused by repeated episodes of balanitis or balanoposthitis. Such infections are commonly due to poor personal hygiene (failure to regularly clean under the foreskin). Phimosis may be a presenting symptom of early diabetes mellitus.

At what age is phimosis a problem?

Phimosis is a condition in which the foreskin can't be retracted (pulled back) from around the tip of the penis. A tight foreskin is common in baby boys who aren't circumcised, but it usually stops being a problem by the age of 3. Phimosis can occur naturally or be the result of scarring.