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Circumcision refers to the surgical procedure of removing the penis foreskin. The surgery is relatively common and offers many benefits. In many cultures, circumcision is done for religious and cultural reasons. While circumcision is usually done for male babies within the first eight days of birth, adults may consider the procedure for cosmetic and other reasons. Learn more about the procedure and other details below.
Why is circumcision done?
Circumcision is usually done for hygiene and religious reasons. In some cases, adults may need to go for the procedure because the foreskin is too tight. A circumcised penis is much easier to clean, eliminating the risk of many penile infections. Data also show that uncircumcised men are more prone to urinary tract infections than those with a circumcised penis. Removal of the foreskin might also help reduce the risk of many sexually transmitted infections, including HIV. Also, circumcised men are at a lower risk of penile cancer, while female sexual partners might be at a lower risk of cervical cancer. Circumcision does not impact fertility or sexual pleasure.
Are there any risks?
Because circumcision is a surgical procedure, there are inherent risks, such as bleeding and infection. In rare cases, circumcision may cause additional concerns, such as cutting the foreskin too short or delays in healing. If the remaining foreskin reattaches to the penis end, a different surgical procedure might be necessary.
What happens during circumcision?
When circumcision is done for newborns, the penis is cleaned thoroughly, and an anesthetic cream or injection is used. A clamp is attached to the penis, and using a scalpel, the foreskin is removed. The penis is then covered in ointment and wrapped in gauze. These steps take about 20 minutes. Circumcision is done similarly for older boys and men, but general anesthesia may be necessary. Also, the procedure may take longer (usually an hour). It takes at least eight to ten days for the penis to heal, and some initial swelling and redness are normal outcomes. It is also okay to clean the penis after a few days of healing. Petroleum jelly should be used after each diaper change, and diapers should be changed often.
When to call the doctor?
If your baby doesn’t urinate within 12 hours of the procedure, check with the doctor. You should also seek help if bleeding doesn’t stop or when there is a foul-smelling discharge from the penis.
The risks related to circumcision are limited compared to the benefits. However, talk to the urologist in detail.
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