Question: I recently experimented with placing clothespins (about 3) just under the head of my penis, on the frenum / inner foreskin. After a minute or so, they came off and later I noticed some slight swelling on the left side. A week later and there's very slight swelling and underneath feels like a blood vessel that is a bit firm and slightly tender. I've been masturbating daily (without clothespins!) and it hasn't gone back to normal -- should I simply leave it alone for a few days, or do I need to see a doctor? Is there any home care I should be doing such as ice and/or anti-inflammatory drugs?

Dr. Srinivasan-

Thank you for your time and advice -- much appreciated!

I have taken your advice and am refraining from masturbating until the swelling reduces completely. So far, it seems to have reduced only about 20% despite icing and Ibuprofen -- granted it has only been 2 days.

How long do blood vessels take to heal? What should my expectations be for healing time? There is slight swelling and no pain or obstruction to urinating, however if I touch the foreskin area on top of the penis, the blood vessels are soft, whereas the area where the clothespin was is still a bit firm and just slightly tender.

I suppose I should just keep resting and icing...I'm just wondering what the range of time is for healing.

Thanks again!

XXXXXXX