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How Do I Clean My Penis?

Published: April 10, 2021 · Last reviewed on this site: 2026-10-30

This answer may be out of date. It was published over 3 years ago. Health guidance changes — check with a doctor or trusted adult.

The question

Dear TeenHealthFX,

im 13 and i never wash under my foreskin because i didnt know i needed to and i cant as my foreskin is connected by a red strand to the tip of my penis, which makes it impossible to retract and if i try it hurts a lot, i aslo have tight foreskin and very sensetive glans. So im really struggling on finding out a way to clean my penis. Please help

Signed: TeenHealthFX


The answer

Based on the information you provided us, it sounds like you may need to ask a medical professional for help. You should never pull the foreskin to the point where it is painful, and it requires a gentle cleaning with a mild soap. We strongly recommend reaching out to a parent or trusted adult and let them know what is going on. Getting checked out by a doctor will give you a chance to receive help on how to clean under your foreskin without causing damage.

If you need help finding a doctor and live in northern New Jersey, you can call the  [Adolescent/Young Adult Center for Health at 973-971-5199  for an appointment with an adolescent medicine specialist.