Male circumcision is the surgical removal of the foreskin, the layer of skin that covers the head of the penis. This procedure can be performed either before or after the mother and baby leave the hospital, as long as the baby is healthy. If the baby has any medical conditions, circumcision may be postponed until it is safe to proceed.
The circumcision procedure is relatively quick, typically taking only a few minutes. During the procedure, the baby is placed on a special table, and the penis and foreskin are thoroughly cleaned. A special clamp is then attached to the penis, and the foreskin is carefully cut and removed. After the procedure, gauze with petroleum jelly is placed over the wound to protect it from rubbing against the diaper.
Pain relief during circumcision is important, and analgesia is both safe and effective for newborns. Parents should discuss with their healthcare provider what type of pain relief will be used to ensure their baby is as comfortable as possible during the procedure.
Circumcision can be performed by obstetrician-gynecologists, pediatricians, or in some cases, trained practitioners in non-medical settings for religious or cultural reasons. It is crucial that the person performing the circumcision is well-trained to minimize risks and complications.
While circumcision is an elective procedure and not required by law or hospital policy, many parents choose to have their infant sons circumcised for various reasons. Health benefits include a decreased risk of urinary tract infections in the first year of life and a reduced risk of sexually transmitted infections (STIs) later in life. Cultural, religious, and social factors also play a significant role in the decision to circumcise.
However, some parents opt not to circumcise due to concerns about pain, risks, or the belief that the decision should be made by the child when he is older. It is worth noting that recovery and the risk of complications can be more significant when circumcision is performed on older children or adults.
Health benefits of circumcision include a reduction in bacteria that can live under the foreskin, which can cause urinary tract infections and, in adults, STIs. Circumcised infants have a lower risk of urinary tract infections in the first year of life, and some research suggests that circumcision may reduce the risk of HIV transmission from an infected female partner. The American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) has concluded that the health benefits of newborn circumcision outweigh the risks, although they do not recommend routine circumcision for all newborn boys.
As with any surgical procedure, circumcision carries some risks, although complications are rare and typically minor. Possible complications include bleeding, infection, or scarring, and they are less likely when the procedure is performed by a well-trained professional in a medical setting. Concerns about the impact of circumcision on sexual function, sensitivity, or satisfaction are largely unfounded according to current evidence.
Circumcision should only be performed when the newborn is stable and healthy. Reasons to delay circumcision include premature birth, bleeding disorders, or certain congenital abnormalities.
Post-procedure care is essential for a circumcised baby. The penis should be cleaned with each diaper change, and petroleum jelly applied to the wound to prevent irritation. Healing usually occurs within 7-10 days, with some redness and a small amount of yellow fluid being normal signs of healing.
For parents who choose not to circumcise, regular cleaning of the penis with mild soap and water is sufficient. The foreskin should not be forcibly retracted in infants, as it may not be fully retractable until the child is older. Proper hygiene and guidance from a pediatrician will ensure the foreskin and penis remain clean and healthy.
When deciding about circumcision, it is important for parents to consider all information regarding the benefits and risks, along with their personal, cultural, and religious beliefs. Consulting with a healthcare provider during pregnancy can help parents make an informed decision that is best for their family.
