Type "intimate hygiene" into a search engine: nine out of ten articles are aimed at women. Yet, the male body is not any simpler to understand—just less documented.
While regular gynecological check-ups are part of most women's healthcare routine, the male equivalent remains virtually non-existent in France. As a result, many men don't really know what is considered normal, what is a helpful practice, or what should be avoided.
Retracting the foreskin, yes, but not too early or too forcefully
In children, the foreskin often remains adherent to the glans for several years: this is normal, and forced retraction should never be attempted. For adolescents and adults, however, regular cleaning under the foreskin becomes necessary, as natural secretions (smegma) accumulate there and can cause inflammation if they are never removed.
Balanitis (inflammation of the glans) is thought to affect approximately 10% of uncircumcised men during their lifetime (O'Farrell & Egger, review published on PMC), and remains the most common reason for consultation in male genital pathology according to La Revue du Praticien.
The "too clean" trap
Contrary to popular belief, it is not just a lack of hygiene that causes problems: excessive washing, particularly with a scented or harsh soap directly on the glans, can just as easily irritate the skin and promote inflammation. La Revue du Praticien explicitly cites "excessive or insufficient local hygiene" among the causes of balanitis: it is the balance that counts, not the frequency.
A gentle, pH-neutral intimate cleanser is more than enough, once a day in the shower. Dry well afterwards: residual moisture under the foreskin is just as significant a factor for irritation as a lack of washing.
The right habits, in brief
Consulting a doctor: still a taboo subject
Persistent redness, itching, or pain when retracting the foreskin: these signs warrant a consultation, without delay or embarrassment. A urologist or a general practitioner deals with these issues regularly—there is nothing unusual about talking about it.
Common misconceptions, once and for all
"A strong antibacterial soap is more effective"
No: a gentle, pH-neutral cleanser is sufficient; a harsh soap is more likely to cause irritation.
"You have to force retraction in young children"
No: foreskin adhesion in children is normal and resolves on its own with growth.
"Men don't need genital medical check-ups"
The care exists; it is simply less socially systematized than gynecological check-ups—which doesn't make it any less legitimate.
Male genital health deserves the same level of attention as any other health check-up: neither excessive nor taboo, simply regular.
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