Circumcision, the surgical removal of the foreskin of a baby boy’s penis, is an ancient practice, carried into modern times by both tradition and accepted medical practice.

However, the necessity of circumcision as an appropriate medical practice, is not necessarily accepted by all. Those in favor of circumcision point to evidence that suggest a decrease in male urinary tract infections, a slight decrease in the risk of contracting sexually transmitted infections, as well as a lower risk from cancer of the penis (although this type of cancer is very rare). Others find no convincing health benefits for removing the foreskin, except for religious or traditional reasons. Like any surgical procedure circumcision does have risks although the rate of complications after circumcision is low-around .2% to .3%. The most common complications are bleeding and infection. The American Academy of Pediatrics found that the slight health benefits of circumcision were not significant enough to recommend that all baby boys be circumcised

Care after circumcision

After the foreskin is removed, usually with the aid of a clamp especially designed for the procedure, a strip of gauze with petroleum jelly is placed around the site. This protects the freshly denuded skin and promotes healing. The gauze strip may be changed after each diaper change and more petroleum jelly applied. When no longer needed, and the skin is healed, routine cleaning after diaper change or with a bath is all the care required.

Change diapers as soon they are soiled, and three or four times a day clean the area with warm water. Do not use soap as this may sting and cause irritation. Avoid using creams and lotions until the circumcision heals. If a Plastibell was used, leave it to fall off on its own, trying to pull it off may damage the penis. It will usually fall off on its own after seven to 14 days.
On occasions, adhesions or connections of skin to the glans or head of the penis may develop. Usually they require no treatment; your doctor will decide, during regular well baby visits, if the adhesions need correcting.

Call the doctor if:

• The wound does not stop bleeding.
• The site appears to be very raw or infected – severe swelling, redness or a thick yellow discharge.
• Your baby develops a fever.
• Your baby has not wet his diaper within eight hours after the procedure, or you notice the urine only comes out in drops or dribbles.
• The Plastibell has not fallen off after two weeks.
• Your baby is extremely irritable, crying and seems to be in pain that cannot be relieved by the pain medication recommended by your doctor

These events seldom occur but are possible.

Care of an uncircumcised penis

Keeping the penis clean with soap and water during normal bath times, is sufficient care for an uncircumcised penis. Don’t try to force the foreskin to retract, as this can damage the penis. The foreskin won’t retract for a few more years. By the age of four, 90% of boys can pull their foreskin back-at this time, your son can be taught how to clean his penis.

The choice of having your baby circumcised is yours. It is a good idea to discuss your concerns with your doctor or healthcare provider who will be caring for your baby before he is born.