What does paraphimosis refer to?

Paraphimosis refers to a condition in which the foreskin of an uncircumcised penis becomes trapped behind the glans (the head of the penis) and cannot be returned to its original position. This typically occurs after the foreskin has been retracted and then cannot be moved back due to swelling or inflammation, leading to potential complications such as restricted blood flow. The ability to retract the foreskin is critical, and when this is hindered, it can result in pain and tissue damage if not treated.

The other options describe different conditions: tightening of the foreskin refers to phimosis, which is the inability to retract the foreskin initially, while infection of the glans penis would be referred to as balanitis. Excessive bleeding from the foreskin is not a definition associated with paraphimosis but rather would indicate a different medical concern or injury. Understanding these distinctions helps clarify why paraphimosis is specifically linked to the inability to retract the foreskin due to swelling.