(Surgical removal of the foreskin of the penis)
Circumcision is a surgical procedure that involves the removal of the foreskin of the penis (skin covering
the tip of the penis). The procedure is common for newborn babies (boys) in certain parts of the world.
Circumcision is also performed in older children and adults for several reasons.
Why is Circumcision Performed?
Non-medical Reasons
Circumcision procedure is a common practice in certain parts of the world. Most non-medical circumcisions are carried out in newborn children.
Medical Reasons
- Easy hygiene
- Decrease the risk of urinary tract infections
- Decrease the risk of sexually transmitted infections
- Prevent penile problems (Phimosis)
- Decrease the risk of penile cancer
Complications of Circumcision
• Pain
• Risk of bleeding or infection at the site of the procedure
• Irritation of the glans
• Higher chance of Balanitis (inflammation of the opening of the penis)
• Risk of injury to the penis
Although there are risks of getting a circumcision, the risks are low.
How to Prepare for Circumcision?
Before circumcision, your doctor will explain the risks and benefits of the procedure.
• Circumcision is often done in newborns when at the hospital.
• For older children and adults, the surgery is usually performed on an outpatient basis.
• Anesthesia or numbing cream is given before the procedure for pain
• In newborns, the procedure takes about 5-10 minutes, and in adults, it takes about an hour.
Circumcision: What to Expect?
Circumcision in New Borns
• After the procedure, the baby may be fussy due to discomfort. Healing time is about 7-10 days.
• It is normal for the penis to be bruised for a few days after the procedure.
• You can clean the penis and change the dressings.
• Always keep the diaper slightly loose to help the tip of the penis heal.
Circumcision: What to Expect?
Circumcision in Adults
• Your doctor will give you instructions to care for your incision
• You can return to work and daily activities when you feel comfortable
• Avoid strenuous exercise (jogging or weight lifting) for 4 weeks after the procedure
• Walking is the best exercise during recovery
• Avoid sexual activity for 6 weeks after the procedure
When to Call a Doctor After Circumcision?
Call your doctor if you have any of the following:
• Increased pain
• Trouble urinating
• Bleeding
• Signs of infection (fever, increased redness, swelling, or drainage)
• A plastic ring that does not fall off after 2 weeks
Circumcision: Myth and Fact
Myth: Circumcision is a cosmetic procedure
Removing the foreskin might look like a cosmetic change to the penis, but it offers some medical benefits to a male child and adult.
Circumcision: Myth and Fact
Myth: Circumcision negatively affects sexual function
Circumcision does not affect sexual function. Sexual sensation, pleasure, and function are the same whether a man is circumcised or not.
How Common is Circumcision?
Circumcision is a surgical procedure of removing the foreskin of the penis.
It is the most common surgery among males, especially in newborns.
About 60% of baby boys and about 33% of males are circumcised.
