What Is Circumcision All About?

Male circumcision is the surgical removal of the fore skin. Foreskin is the fold of skin covering the end of the penis which can be gently pulled back. Circumcision is a common procedure that is carried out in newborn boys in certain parts of the world.

While for some families, circumcision is a family tradition or a religious ritual, for others, it can be for personal hygiene or a form of preventive health care. Sometimes, there can also be a medical emergency for a circumcision when the foreskin is too tight to be pulled back over the glans.

According to The American Academy of Pediatrics, the benefits of circumcision outweigh the risk. Circumcision is not mandatory for all male newborns. It is the decision that is either left to the parents to make or it is the doctor's call depending on the medical need for circumcision.

Circumcision has number of health benefits:
• Reduced risk of urinary tract infections: Circumcised males have a lower risk of urinary tract infections when compared to uncircumcised males.
• Reduced risk of sexually transmitted diseases: Circumcised men have a lower risk to develop sexually transmitted diseases including HIV. However, safe sexual practices remain essential.
• Easier hygiene: Circumcision makes it easy and simpler to keep the penis clean and maintain good personal hygiene.
• Prevention of penile problems: The foreskin on an uncircumcised penis can be difficult to or impossible to retract. This condition is called phimosis, which can lead to the inflammation of the foreskin or head of the penis.

Circumcision is not an option if certain blood clotting disorders are present. It is also not appropriate for premature babies who still require medical care.
Circumcision does not affect male fertility and is neither done to enhance sexual pleasure for men or their partners.

Circumcision is a common and a simple procedure. If you are planning to have your son circumcised, talk to your doctor about the risks, benefits and care to be taken after the procedure.