199: Problem Foreskin Explained: It could be Phimosis- listen here for evidenced based nonsurgical solutions

199: Problem Foreskin Explained: It could be Phimosis- listen here for evidenced based nonsurgical solutions

In this episode, Melissa is joined by Dr. Eric Chung, to dive deep into a topic that many men feel too embarrassed to ask about: tight/painful/unretractable foreskin- phimosis. Whether you've never been able to retract your foreskin or it's become tight and uncomfortable later in life, you're not alone—and you're not without options. This issue affects 2-6% of men worldwide.

This episode explores the two main types of phimosis, how to recognise it, what causes it, and what treatments are available beyond circumcision, including the innovative Novoglan device. They also bust myths around hygiene, sensitivity, and when tight foreskin becomes a medical emergency.

This is a must-listen for anyone experiencing foreskin issues, for clinicians wanting better tools for patient care, and for partners who want to understand more about this issue.

In This Episode, We Cover:

  • What phimosis is—and why it only affects uncircumcised men
  • The difference between congenital phimosis and BXO (balanitis xerotica obliterans)
  • Common causes: scarring, trauma, infection, and stretching injuries
  • What is Novoglan and how does it work to gently treat phimosis?
  • Why circumcision isn’t the only answer?
  • Risks of ignoring phimosis—urinary issues, infections, and paraphimosis
  • How tight foreskin can cause sexual dysfunction and distress
  • The role of steroids and soap-free hygiene in treatment
  • Empowering men to make informed choices about their bodies

Key Takeaways:

  • You’re not alone. Phimosis is common but often hidden behind shame.
  • Not all tight foreskins need to be cut. Devices like Novoglan offer non-surgical options.
  • BXO is a progressive condition. Early management can preserve both function and comfort.
  • Paraphimosis is a medical emergency. Know the signs and don’t delay seeking help.
  • Sexual function is more than physical. The psychological impacts of phimosis are real and valid.
  • Gentle hygiene is key. Avoid soaps—use warm water and a cotton cloth to keep things clean and healthy.

Expert Insight from Melissa Hadley Barrett: “As a nurse practitioner and sexologist, I see firsthand how foreskin issues like phimosis affect not just a man’s body, but his confidence, relationships, and sexual wellbeing. The good news is—we can help. There’s more to treatment than just circumcision, and men deserve options, dignity, and evidence-based care. That’s what we’re all about at Restorative Health Clinic.”

Resources & Links:

  • The Penis Project podcast Episode 107- Penis Skin Conditions with Dermatologist Dr Ahmed
  • Check out our Youtube for more information on phimosis

Listen & Subscribe

  • If you found this episode helpful, don’t forget to subscribe, rate, and review the podcast! Your feedback helps us continue bringing important conversations to light. Search for The Penis Project Podcast on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, or your favourite podcast app.

Listener Offer:

Available in Australia and worldwide – shop vis www.rshealth.com Use code TPP10 for 10% off

Global Access:

  • Australia: Ships via Restorative Health Clinic

Connect With Us

We love hearing from real people navigating penile health. If you’d like to share your journey or ask a question, get in touch.

Email: admin@melissahadleybarrett.com Website: www.rshealth.com.au

Websites:

https://rshealth.com.au/ All genders

https://makehardeasy.com.au

https://melissahadleybarrett.com

http://prost.com.au/

Instagram:

https://www.instagram.com/melissahadleybarrett/

https://www.instagram.com/restorativehealth.clinic/

TikTok: @melissahadleybarrett

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@melissahadleybarrett

Facebook:

https://m.facebook.com/p/Melissa-Hadley-Barrett-100085237672685/

https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100085146627814

Linkedin:

https://www.linkedin.com/in/melissa-hadley-barrett/

TEDX

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=IjHj1YTmLoA

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118. Farm Life Fitness with Louise, Specialised Fitness Programs for Farmers

118. Farm Life Fitness with Louise, Specialised Fitness Programs for Farmers

Today, we speak with Louise, the owner and founder of Farm Life Fitness. Louise is more than just a health and wellness professional because she’s also a farmer. She lives and breathes the agricultural lifestyle. Her lived experience means she understands the challenges to health and wellness that farming and living rurally can present. Melissa had the pleasure of meeting Louise at a speaking event in December 2022 and was so impressed with her story she invited her to speak on The Penis Project.   The aim of Farm Life Fitness is to create a space for anyone living in rural areas who wants to connect with others and improve their health. This model was inspired by the experience of Louise and her husband which she shares in this episode.   Combining her experience as a sports physiologist and the observations she had made in her workplace where she noticed that despite therapy, clients were not always achieving their desired results, so Farm Life Fitness was born. Programs are designed to help people who are living remotely to have access to programs that improve not just their physical health but most importantly, their mental wellbeing.   Louise’s initiatives and programs highlight the need of folks in rural locations. If you live in a rural or remote location this one is for you, but if you live in a metro area, this will make you think and help you understand the lifestyle of the people who grow our food.   Enjoy listening!   For more info about Louise’s programs, visit her website at https://farmlifefitness.com.au/.   ---------- Websites: https://melissahadleybarrett.com   Men’s health only https://rshealth.com.au/  All genders http://www.menshealthphysiotherapy.com.au/ http://prost.com.au/   Facebook: https://m.facebook.com/p/Melissa-Hadley-Barrett-100085237672685/ https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100085146627814   Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/melissahadleybarrett/ https://www.instagram.com/restorativehealth.clinic/ TikTok: @melissahadleybarrett YouTube: Melissa Hadley Barrett Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/melissa-hadley-barrett/   Music David Mercy https://open.spotify.com/artist/1HbvnltKu4XbWTmk0kpVB9?si=D1xP5dDVQK-zzNU3rViRWg   Producer Thomas Evans: The SOTA Process https://www.instagram.com/thesotaprocess/ https://open.spotify.com/show/4Jf2IYXRlgfsiqNARsY8fi

11 Jan 202344min

117. Why Exploring Yourself Makes Sense - With Body Curious owner, Jonn

117. Why Exploring Yourself Makes Sense - With Body Curious owner, Jonn

For today’s episode, we talk with Jonn, the founder and owner of Body Curious.     Following an accident, Jonn was left with 15% whole body permanent impairment. However, through a combination of rehabilitation and yoga, he was able to restore his body function. This inspired him to create Body Curious in 2014, a men's only yoga studio committed to improving health outcomes for men. He is a qualified Yoga, Thai Yoga Massage teacher & Practitioner, and a Sexological Bodywork Practitioner.    Early on, Jonn realised that his studio was attracting more men than women. So, with this information, he decided to focus on men.     This opportunity to cater to only men brought about the first of his now many Naked Yoga sessions. His 1st class of Naked Yoga was attended by 20 naked men.     In case you’re wondering, yes, naked – meaning complete, pure natural bodies showing.     Jonn also talked about his sexological work, how it works, why it’s different from the others, and what it can and can’t do.     Interestingly, the discussion also touched upon personal pleasure, why it’s important to understand how to explore yourself and how to teach children about this quite taboo but important topic.     How early should a child use a cellular phone? What happens if they get exposed to porn? When is the best time to discuss sex and pleasure with them? Why is it important to let children know that they should not be ashamed of pleasure? And so many more compelling topics that we know you’ll surely relate to.     Listen to the exchanges between Jonn, Melissa, and Dr Jo through the button below. Don’t forget to share your thoughts in the comments as well!   ---------- Websites: https://melissahadleybarrett.com   Men’s health only https://rshealth.com.au/  All genders http://www.menshealthphysiotherapy.com.au/ http://prost.com.au/   Facebook: https://m.facebook.com/p/Melissa-Hadley-Barrett-100085237672685/ https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100085146627814   Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/melissahadleybarrett/ https://www.instagram.com/restorativehealth.clinic/ TikTok: @melissahadleybarrett YouTube: Melissa Hadley Barrett Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/melissa-hadley-barrett/   Music David Mercy https://open.spotify.com/artist/1HbvnltKu4XbWTmk0kpVB9?si=D1xP5dDVQK-zzNU3rViRWg   Producer Thomas Evans: The SOTA Process https://www.instagram.com/thesotaprocess/ https://open.spotify.com/show/4Jf2IYXRlgfsiqNARsY8fi

6 Jan 202357min

116. Melissa at the PUC Masterclass; What patients want to know about sex and how to raise the subject?

116. Melissa at the PUC Masterclass; What patients want to know about sex and how to raise the subject?

For this episode, we will listen to Melissa’s talk at the Masterclass for Urologists last June.     We all know that talking about sexual health can be a bit awkward. But it's important to remember that patients are sexual beings too! GP's play a vital role in ensuring their patients' sexual health and wellbeing, and part of that is being able to talk about sexual function openly and comfortably.     On June 11th 2022, Melissa was invited to be a guest speaker for a Perth Urology Clinic’s Masterclass and her topic was “Why patients are embarrassed to ask their GP about sex”.     We sent out a survey asking our audience various questions on the subject which received an overwhelming response, with over a quarter taking the time to fill it out (we really appreciate this)!     To know the results and how Melissa nailed her presentation, have a listen!     You can also view the results here:   https://rshealth.com.au/rshc-survey-sexual-function-discussion-with-your-gps/    And Melissa’s video:   https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=wkQiZGyH8Nw  ---------- Websites: https://melissahadleybarrett.com   Men’s health only https://rshealth.com.au/  All genders http://www.menshealthphysiotherapy.com.au/ http://prost.com.au/   Facebook: https://m.facebook.com/p/Melissa-Hadley-Barrett-100085237672685/ https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100085146627814   Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/melissahadleybarrett/ https://www.instagram.com/restorativehealth.clinic/ TikTok: @melissahadleybarrett YouTube: Melissa Hadley Barrett Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/melissa-hadley-barrett/   Music David Mercy https://open.spotify.com/artist/1HbvnltKu4XbWTmk0kpVB9?si=D1xP5dDVQK-zzNU3rViRWg   Producer Thomas Evans: The SOTA Process https://www.instagram.com/thesotaprocess/ https://open.spotify.com/show/4Jf2IYXRlgfsiqNARsY8fi

28 Dec 202232min

115. Merry Christmas, Everyone! See what’s in store for 2023

115. Merry Christmas, Everyone! See what’s in store for 2023

A lot of exciting things coming this 2023 for Men’s health - in and out of Australia! Join Dr Jo and Melissa talk about the highlights of this year and what to look forward to for 2023. Exciting times are ahead so buckle up, Penis Project listeners! ---------- Websites: https://melissahadleybarrett.com   Men’s health only https://rshealth.com.au/  All genders http://www.menshealthphysiotherapy.com.au/ http://prost.com.au/   Facebook: https://m.facebook.com/p/Melissa-Hadley-Barrett-100085237672685/ https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100085146627814   Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/melissahadleybarrett/ https://www.instagram.com/restorativehealth.clinic/ TikTok: @melissahadleybarrett YouTube: Melissa Hadley Barrett Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/melissa-hadley-barrett/   Music David Mercy https://open.spotify.com/artist/1HbvnltKu4XbWTmk0kpVB9?si=D1xP5dDVQK-zzNU3rViRWg   Producer Thomas Evans: The SOTA Process https://www.instagram.com/thesotaprocess/ https://open.spotify.com/show/4Jf2IYXRlgfsiqNARsY8fi

21 Dec 202233min

114. Why is your heart health connected with your penis? With Dr Nilufeur McKay

114. Why is your heart health connected with your penis? With Dr Nilufeur McKay

Melissa has often mentioned that your heart health is related to your hard health. So today, we will dig deeper into this statement with Kendall and her mentor, Dr. Nilufeur McKay. Hello Dr Nilufeur starts with the advice that you always hear - prevention is better than cure. For anything that is heart-related, the most important thing is to prevent plaque build-up. By preventing build-up, you also prevent sudden heart attacks. Very interestingly also, even for both Kendall and Melissa, is the fact that a heart attack presents very differently for men and women. Dr. Nilufeur will define what these are. Moreover, she also shares how risk factors, women’s menopause, and other diseases affect the development of heart disease and vice versa. She further discusses the correlation between erectile dysfunction, heart attack, and the effect of medication (e.g., nitrates). If there is anything we want you to take away from this episode, it is this: make sure to talk to your GP/NP about the medications you are taking. Why? Because the medicine you are taking can impact the performance of your tool down there. In conclusion, Dr. Nilufeur reiterates that your health is in your hands. Know your body well and seek help when there’s something amiss. Remember, you have to take care of your health for your future. This is an interesting, super digestible episode so make sure to have a listen!   Dr. Nilufeur has over 20 years' nursing experience and is a Cardiology Nurse Practitioner. She started her career at Royal Perth Hospital, coronary care unit taking care of transplant and acute cardiac patients. She then spent 7 years at the Mayo Clinic as an NP on the Advanced Heart Failure and Transplant service while completing her Doctor of Nursing Practice degree at Johns Hopkins University.   She then took a position at the University of California, San Diego as an Advanced Heart Failure and Transplant NP before moving back home to Australia in 2020. She still works clinically and is the course coordinator for the Master of Nursing (Nurse Practitioner) course at Edith Cowan University. ---------- Websites: https://melissahadleybarrett.com   Men’s health only https://rshealth.com.au/  All genders http://www.menshealthphysiotherapy.com.au/ http://prost.com.au/   Facebook: https://m.facebook.com/p/Melissa-Hadley-Barrett-100085237672685/ https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100085146627814   Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/melissahadleybarrett/ https://www.instagram.com/restorativehealth.clinic/ TikTok: @melissahadleybarrett YouTube: Melissa Hadley Barrett Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/melissa-hadley-barrett/   Music David Mercy https://open.spotify.com/artist/1HbvnltKu4XbWTmk0kpVB9?si=D1xP5dDVQK-zzNU3rViRWg   Producer Thomas Evans: The SOTA Process https://www.instagram.com/thesotaprocess/ https://open.spotify.com/show/4Jf2IYXRlgfsiqNARsY8fi

13 Dec 202218min

113. Viva Las Vegas & Prostate Cancer POST- OP RECOVERY & REHAB!

113. Viva Las Vegas & Prostate Cancer POST- OP RECOVERY & REHAB!

Following on from last week’s episode of The Penis Project Podcast with Anthony & Carla (Episode 112), we are THRILLED to welcome them back into the studio for a review of Antony’s post-op recovery &  rehabilitation progress from a robotic prostatectomy on Nov 8th 2022!! Our Viva Las Vegas couple does not hold back as they share the thrills & spills - of their surgical experience, from the moment Anthony awoke to their first leaky days and nights, sexual recovery, and his  progression to sit-ups to train the pelvic floor! To – recap - What happens when you’re a healthy young man unexpectedly diagnosed with Prostate Cancer & have an avalanche of fear about the unknown side effects of life-saving surgery? What happens too, when you have brand new girlfriend flying in from Las Vegas to start a new life in Australia in the very same week?....... GET BUSY with REHAB-ing with it is EXACTLY WHAT! You will be inspired, delighted and impressed with what this dynamic duo managed to achieve in the BEFORE, to help the AFTER!!! An awesome story of love, hope and teamwork in difficult circumstances… So join in the conversation. Listen, learn and laugh with Anthony & Carla- the next generation of RECOVERY & REHABILITATION in Prostate Cancer. And their emerging love story… Stay tuned too, for Carla’s offer to answer questions for couples from her hometown of LAS Vegas – a new element to be called ‘’Carla’s Q&A”… coming soon…. Until then!! VIVA Las Vegas ---------- Websites: https://melissahadleybarrett.com   Men’s health only https://rshealth.com.au/  All genders http://www.menshealthphysiotherapy.com.au/ http://prost.com.au/   Facebook: https://m.facebook.com/p/Melissa-Hadley-Barrett-100085237672685/ https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100085146627814   Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/melissahadleybarrett/ https://www.instagram.com/restorativehealth.clinic/ TikTok: @melissahadleybarrett YouTube: Melissa Hadley Barrett Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/melissa-hadley-barrett/   Music David Mercy https://open.spotify.com/artist/1HbvnltKu4XbWTmk0kpVB9?si=D1xP5dDVQK-zzNU3rViRWg   Producer Thomas Evans: The SOTA Process https://www.instagram.com/thesotaprocess/ https://open.spotify.com/show/4Jf2IYXRlgfsiqNARsY8fi

7 Dec 202246min

112. Viva Las Vegas & Prostate Cancer PREP!!!

112. Viva Las Vegas & Prostate Cancer PREP!!!

What happens when you’re a healthy young man unexpectedly diagnosed with Prostate Cancer & have an avalanche of fear about the unknown side effects of life-saving surgery? What happens too, when you have a brand new girlfriend flying in from Las Vegas to start a new life in Australia in the very same week? GET BUSY with PREPPING it is EXACTLY WHAT! In today’s episode, we are excited to introduce you to Anthony and, his new partner, Carla who have together explored the SWIFT change to their relationship! With 2 months to prepare for his radical prostatectomy, Anthony began walking, talking, and shredding!! At his first physiotherapy meeting with Dr. Jo, Anthony was quick to share his desire to be a fully functioning man, especially given the recency of his new romance. As you will learn, not only did Anthony lose 10kg in weight and a 33-gram prostate, but he also gained a whole new perspective on men’s health!! Even better for The Penis Project Podcasters… is that Anthony & Carla have also been filming every step along the way. So join in the conversation. Listen, learn and laugh with Anthony & Carla - the next generation of PREPARATION in Prostate Cancer. And their emerging love story… VIVA Las Vegas.  ---------- Websites: https://melissahadleybarrett.com   Men’s health only https://rshealth.com.au/  All genders http://www.menshealthphysiotherapy.com.au/ http://prost.com.au/   Facebook: https://m.facebook.com/p/Melissa-Hadley-Barrett-100085237672685/ https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100085146627814   Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/melissahadleybarrett/ https://www.instagram.com/restorativehealth.clinic/ TikTok: @melissahadleybarrett YouTube: Melissa Hadley Barrett Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/melissa-hadley-barrett/   Music David Mercy https://open.spotify.com/artist/1HbvnltKu4XbWTmk0kpVB9?si=D1xP5dDVQK-zzNU3rViRWg   Producer Thomas Evans: The SOTA Process https://www.instagram.com/thesotaprocess/ https://open.spotify.com/show/4Jf2IYXRlgfsiqNARsY8fi

1 Dec 202246min

111. Primo Pino Hits the Spot Everytime!

111. Primo Pino Hits the Spot Everytime!

Today, we speak with beautiful boy Pino.  Before hitting the play button, we'd like you to prepare a timer (your phone perhaps) because Dr. Jo will be giving a pelvic exercise test on the spot!   At the start of the episode, Dr Jo will share a little bit of the history and evolution of prostatectomy.  Then, since Dr Jo hadn't met Primo for 4 years, she will get him to perform a practical experiment to see how real muscle memory is.   Yes. Pino will do his pelvic exercises whilst being interviewed here in the Penis Project podcast. As the listener, you can of course do the practical test yourself! Just follow Dr. Jo's instructions.   Thank you, Pino, for your participation. ;) Once we've completed Dr. Jo's practical test, we listen to Pino's story.   Pino, after surgery, enjoys semi-erections. But he would like to make things better.   So he met with Melissa.   Pino knows that there can be orgasms without erections but he also knew that in this case, his wife was missing out.    To resolve the issue, Melissa suggested penile injections. And the rest is history.   Pino has been hitting the right spot every time! For 18 months, he had no misfire. He and his wife have been enjoying the benefits of the injection since then.   Primo Pino video coming soon. ;)  ---------- Websites: https://melissahadleybarrett.com   Men’s health only https://rshealth.com.au/  All genders http://www.menshealthphysiotherapy.com.au/ http://prost.com.au/   Facebook: https://m.facebook.com/p/Melissa-Hadley-Barrett-100085237672685/ https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100085146627814   Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/melissahadleybarrett/ https://www.instagram.com/restorativehealth.clinic/ TikTok: @melissahadleybarrett YouTube: Melissa Hadley Barrett Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/melissa-hadley-barrett/   Music David Mercy https://open.spotify.com/artist/1HbvnltKu4XbWTmk0kpVB9?si=D1xP5dDVQK-zzNU3rViRWg   Producer Thomas Evans: The SOTA Process https://www.instagram.com/thesotaprocess/ https://open.spotify.com/show/4Jf2IYXRlgfsiqNARsY8fi

24 Nov 202245min

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