Is it safe keeping foreskin permanently retracted to avoid balanitis?

No, it is not safe to keep the foreskin permanently retracted to avoid balanitis. Doing so can cause a number of problems, including:

* Phimosis: This is a condition in which the foreskin becomes too tight and cannot be retracted over the glans. Phimosis can make it difficult to clean the penis and can also cause pain during urination and sex.

* Balanoposthitis: This is an inflammation of the glans penis and foreskin. Balanoposthitis can be caused by a number of factors, including infection, poor hygiene, and trauma.

* Urinary tract infections (UTIs): UTIs are caused by bacteria that enter the urethra and travel to the bladder. Keeping the foreskin permanently retracted can make it easier for bacteria to enter the urethra and cause a UTI.

* Scarring: Keeping the foreskin permanently retracted can cause scarring of the glans penis and foreskin. This scarring can make it difficult to retract the foreskin and can also cause pain during urination and sex.

In addition, keeping the foreskin permanently retracted can also increase the risk of developing sexually transmitted infections (STIs). This is because the foreskin helps to protect the glans penis from contact with bacteria and other microorganisms that can cause STIs.

For these reasons, it is important to only retract the foreskin when cleaning the penis or during sex. Keeping the foreskin permanently retracted can cause a number of problems and is not recommended.