Preputium penis

Preputium Penis or the Prepuce is the technical term for the skin sheath, or foreskin, that covers the glans penis in uncircumcised males. It is a double-layered fold of skin and mucous membrane that serves to protect the sensitive glans from friction and damage.

Anatomy

The preputium penis is composed of an outer skin layer and an inner mucosa that is thinner and a different color. The prepuce is divided into the outer skin (continuous with the skin of the shaft) and the inner mucosa (continuous with the skin of the glans). The area where these two layers meet is called the frenulum.

Function

The primary function of the preputium penis is to protect the glans penis from friction and damage. It also serves a sexual function, providing a loose layer of skin that can move during sexual intercourse, reducing friction and enhancing sexual pleasure.

Medical Considerations

Various medical conditions can affect the preputium penis, including Phimosis, a condition where the foreskin cannot be fully retracted over the glans, and Paraphimosis, a condition where the foreskin, once retracted, cannot be moved back to its original position. Both conditions may require medical intervention.

Cultural and Ethical Considerations

The removal of the preputium penis, or Circumcision, is a common practice in many cultures for religious, cultural, or health reasons. However, it is a subject of ethical debate due to issues of consent and potential health risks or benefits.

See Also

• Glans Penis
• Frenulum of prepuce of penis
• Phimosis
• Paraphimosis
• Circumcision