How is Circumcision Performed?

Circumcision is the cutting of the foreskin from the penis so the head is no longer covered. Many people know what a circumcised penis looks like, but few know what the process entails and how much the newborn infant must suffer in order for this procedure to take place. It is actually quite disheartening that so many parents are willing to put their newborn sons through this procedure without knowing exactly what it entails and how it will affect their child. The way the circumcision is performed is outlined below.

Procedure

The circumcision begins with the penis being evaluated for any problems. As long as everything is the way it should be then the doctor will insert a clamp or ring between the head of the penis and the foreskin to separate it. The clamp will remain in place in order to protect the rest of the penis so that the foreskin may be cut away. Once the procedure is completed then the wound will be dressed and the child will be returned to his parents or the nursery. Generally, only local anesthesia is used but in some cases no anesthesia is used. The baby’s heart rate increases and is obviously in distress.

Making a Decision

It is important for parents to understand what a circumcision entails and the effects it could have on their little one. Mistakes are made and sometimes too much skin is removed and other times not enough. Similarly, other mistakes may be made that will affect the child for the rest of their life. It doesn’t make sense to circumcise a newborn baby that has no idea what is happening and then must suffer for days with an open wound that burns each time the urinate.

In rare circumstances, a child may die from circumcision or develop a serious infection that could lead to serious health problems. This is not always the case, however it does occur and people should be well aware of the problems that can occur with circumcision.

Later Circumcision

Remember, parents who choose not to circumcise their sons will still allow them the opportunity to be circumcised at a later stage in life if that is what they choose. Leaving this decision up to the child is highly recommended because once a circumcision has taken place it is impossible to return the penis to normal. There are operations that may be performed, but it is not the same.

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