Many people know of circumcision but they are grossly misinformed when it comes to the specific details of the procedure. In fact, there are many myths and beliefs that are simply incorrect and perpetrated among various cultural and religious groups. If you are considering circumcising your child, you should educate yourself on the circumcision procedure, which will help you make an informed choice on behalf of your newborn.

During circumcision, the foreskin (an outer layer of skin that drapes over the shaft of the penis) is surgically removed through a variety of methods. If a male’s penis remains intact, the foreskin will naturally hang over the head of his penis, and will eventually become retractable, easily pulled back from the shaft to expose the head. However, without this extra length of foreskin the head of the penis is continually exposed, and there is controversy as to how medically beneficial this surgical procedure is in the long run.

Proponents of circumcision argue that the medical benefits are plentiful- decreased urinary tract infections, reduced risk of penile cancer, a higher resistance to STDs, including HIV/AIDS, and less irritation, inflammation and infection of the genitals. Proponents also go as far to say that the medical benefits apply to women as well, since having sexual intercourse with circumcised men can lead to medical complications such as Chlamydia, genital herpes, ectopic pregnancy, and cervical cancer. However, opponents of circumcision claim that the procedure is unnatural, unnecessary, and even harmful to males, especially in their adult life. Many opponents say that sexual stimulation is decreased when a male has been circumcised, and they will reach more sexual pleasure with an intact penis.

There are a variety of ways in which the foreskin can be removed, although most involve a specialized devise such as the Plastibell, or a clamp such as the GOMCO. Some physicians remove the foreskin freehand with a scalpel, but this method can sometimes cause uneven and unattractive scarring. Before beginning the procedure, the physician must estimate how much of the foreskin will be removed, and how much will be left on the shaft of the penis. This is a crucial part of the circumcision process, because removing too much or too little foreskin can result in pain and even subsequent surgeries. Circumcision is actually a very quick procedure and can be completed in less than 15 minutes, depending on the experience of the physician and the technique employed.

Make sure you talk to your physician if you have any questions about the circumcision process, and make sure they have ample experience in performing the procedure on newborns. Do not be embarrassed or feel guilty to ask for a different surgeon to circumcise your newborn- the decision is a very personal one and one that your child will have to live with for the rest of his adult life.

Posted in Circumcision

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