Any man who is uncut is familiar with the cheesy, sticky, white
or yellowish substance that tends to build up underneath the prepuce. This
pasty, often smelly substance – known commonly as smegma -- is generally
regarded as unpleasant and dirty. On the other hand, smegma does, in fact, play
an important role in male organ
health, so it is worth learning more about it and understanding its purpose
before dismissing it as a source of disgust and embarrassment.
What is smegma, exactly?
The lining of the sheath secretes a mucousy substance that
serves as a lubricant; it is analogous to the tears that lubricate the eyes and
prevent the eyelids from sticking to their surface. In the same manner, this
mucousy fluid allows the sheath and head to slide over each other and protects
the head from irritation. As the prepuce and head rub together, dead skin cells
are shed; and because of the presence of the sheath, they do not fall away, but
instead combine with the mucous – as well as sweat and other body fluids – to
form the paste that is known as smegma.
In spite of its image as dirty, smegma is actually harmless; in
fact, it has antiviral properties that can help to protect the manhood tissue.
In infants, it is especially important, as it forms a barrier that shields the
delicate head from the harmful effects of urine. On the other hand, while it
serves a beneficial purpose, smegma can also cause problems if it is allowed to
build up underneath the sheath; therefore, adequate hygiene measures are needed
to prevent these from occurring.
Potential problems caused by smegma
build-up
Over time, smegma build-up can cause a variety of problems:
1) When smegma becomes thick, dry and waxy, it can actually
cause the sheath to stick to the head, rather than allowing them to slide over
each other naturally. When the sheath cannot be retracted over the head – a
condition known as phimosis – men may experience discomfort or even pain during
intimacy.
2) Trapped smegma also provides a haven for bacteria. When these
microorganisms take up residence under the sheath, their presence can trigger
an immune system response, leading to swelling of the sheath, pain, redness and
even a smelly discharge. This condition is known as balanitis, and it is
responsible for about 1 in 10 visits to reproductive clinics or urologists by
men.
3) While less serious than phimosis or balanitis, built-up
smegma can cause a distinctive, foul odor that can be a considerable source of
embarrassment. Removing the smegma regularly can reduce this unpleasant, fishy
smell.
On the other hand, it is important to point out that the
sebaceous glands that produce the mucousy oil actually produce a fishy odor on
their own. This smell can be heightened by the hormones that are released
during intimacy; many men report that they notice a strong, fishy odor
immediately after partner play or self-pleasuring. This is not related to
smegma, and it is not easily washed away.
In addition to these problems, there is a widespread perception
that the presence of smegma can cause cancer. Researchers have, in fact,
discovered a link between smegma and manhood cancer; however, it is believed
that the smegma itself does not cause cancer. Rather, it is the irritation that
occurs when the area under the sheath is not cleaned carefully that is
responsible for the cellular changes that can lead to cancerous tumors.
Proper care for the male organ
In order to prevent problems that can occur when smegma is
allowed to accumulate under the sheath, proper hygiene measures are necessary.
First, the male organ should be washed in warm water every day. The sheath
should be gently retracted (never forced) to expose the head, and any smegma
that is present should be wiped away with the finger tips. The use of very hot
water, or of strong soaps or shower gels, is not recommended, because these can
deplete the body of its natural lubricating oils; the detergents in ordinary
soaps can cause irritation. After washing, the skin should be dried carefully
and the sheath rolled back into place.
Some men choose to use deodorants or fragrances to deal with
odors. However, this is not a good idea, as again, the chemicals in these
products can cause irritation. On the other hand, use of a good male organ health cream (health professionals
recommend Man1 Man Oil) that
contains vitamin A – a natural antibacterial ingredient – can help to control
odors as well as soften and strengthen the skin. A product like this can be
applied daily to improve overall male organ health.
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.