The foreskin may retract spontaneously with erections which occur normally from birth on and even occur in fetal life. If the foreskin does not seem to retract easily early in life, it is important to realize that this is not abnormal and that it should eventually do so. Skin cells from the glans of the penis and the inner foreskin are shed throughout life. They escape by working their way to the tip of the foreskin. At puberty, Tyson's Glands produce an oily substance, which, when mixed with shed skin cells, constitute adult smegma.
Adult smegma serves a protective, lubricating function for the glans.
The foreskin is easy to care for. The infant should be bathed or sponged frequently, and all parts should be washed including the genitals. The uncircumcised penis is easy to keep clean. No attempt should be made to forceably retract the foreskin. No manipulation is necessary.