Content
To clean the boys' genital region, the skin covering the glans, known as the foreskin, should not be pulled and hygiene can be done during the bath, as long as the region is not too dirty and does not contaminate the water.
Whenever possible, especially in the case of babies, one should choose to use only warm water because the skin is very sensitive. In some cases, you can use hygiene products, such as glycerin soap or specific for intimate hygiene, especially when the region is dirty with feces.
Technique for hygiene of the genitals
To clean the genital area in the boy, you must clean the region of the foreskin displaced from the glans without forcing and pulling back the skin covering the glans, especially in babies, because it can hurt. In addition, the skin should be dried very well, especially in the folds without scraping.
In case it is necessary to pull the foreskin, this should only be done by the doctor, since, when pulled improperly, it can tear the skin, and may heal incorrectly and surgery is necessary.
For babies who wear a diaper, it is essential to close the diaper, always keeping the corners taut without getting too loose or too tight. In the case of boys, cotton underwear that is not too tight should be worn.
When to perform genital hygiene
The cleaning of the genitals must be careful, but not obsessive, being carried out at least once a day in children who no longer use diapers, for example.
However, in the case of babies who wear diapers, the genital area must be cleaned every time the diaper is changed, which can happen between 5 to 10 times a day.
When the baby makes only urine, running warm water or a wet towel can be used, which can also be used to clean the stool carefully so as not to hurt the baby. Finally, it is important to dry the skin well and apply a protective cream before putting on the new diaper.
How to keep your genital skin clean
To keep the skin of the genital area clean and free of diaper rash, one should avoid using chemical wipes every time the diaper is changed, because these chemicals can dry out and irritate the skin. If moistened cotton is used, it is very important to dry the skin well afterwards.
Before applying the diaper, you can apply a paste of water based on zinc oxide, which will help keep the baby's skin dry and protected.
In addition, the skin should not be rubbed because it can hurt and, in the case of the baby, can be left without a diaper for a few minutes of the day for the skin to breathe.
When to use diaper rash cream
Ointments for diaper rash should only be used when the skin is red and irritated, as they can make the skin more sensitive and more prone to diaper rash. Alternatively, a protective cream can be used to prevent its appearance.
See also how to give the baby a complete bath.
Created by: Tua Saúde Editorial Team