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Penis and foreskin care

Penis and foreskin care

It is important to look after your child's penis and foreskin to keep it healthy and prevent redness, pain and infection.

  • The foreskin is loose skin that covers the head of the penis.
  • You should look after your child’s penis like the rest of their body. This means washing it regularly and rinsing off any soap.
  • There is no need to clean inside your child’s foreskin until it easily pulls back (retracts).
  • Make sure you change wet or dirty nappies promptly to avoid redness and infection.
  • As your child gets older, teach them to clean their penis and foreskin as part of their hygiene routine.
  • If your child’s foreskin gets stuck while retracted, seek urgent medical care.
Organisation:
Topic:
Target audience:
Parents or carers
Service area:
VIC
Published:
July 2025
Last reviewed:
August 2026