Circumcision

What is Circumcision?

Circumcision is a surgical procedure in which the foreskin, which covers the tip of the penis, is removed. It is typically performed on newborns but can also be done on older boys and men.

The procedure is usually done for religious or cultural reasons, but it can also have potential health benefits, such as a reduced risk of certain infections. However, there are also potential risks associated with the procedure, so it is important to weigh the benefits and risks before deciding to have a circumcision performed.

In English, the word "circumcision" is most commonly used, but it can also be referred to as "male circumcision" or "genital cutting" in some contexts.

Who is Suitable for Circumcision?

Circumcision is typically performed on newborns but can also be done on older boys and men. The decision to have a circumcision performed should be based on an informed discussion between the patient (or the patient's parents or guardians) and a healthcare provider.

Circumcision is not recommended for everyone, and certain medical conditions may make it contraindicated. Individuals with bleeding disorders or other conditions that make it difficult to stop bleeding should avoid circumcision. The same goes for individuals with an infection or inflammation of the penis.

Benefits of Circumcision

There are several potential benefits to circumcision, including

Eliminates the risk of phimosis, which affects 1 in 10 older boys and men. This condition refers to a tight foreskin that cannot be pulled back fully, so making cleaning under it and passing urine difficult.
Reduces by 3-fold the risk of inflammation and infection of the skin of the penis. One in 10 uncircumcised men gets inflammation of the head of the penis and foreskin.
Over 10-fold decrease in risk of urinary tract infection. Whereas the risk of this is only 1 in 500 for a circumcised boy, 1 in 50 uncircumcised male infants will get a urinary tract infection.
Over 10-20-fold decrease in risk of invasive penile cancer usually requires penile amputation or disfiguring surgery.
Reduces by approximately 3 to 7 fold the risk of getting HIV (AIDS) during sex with an infected person.
Circumcision also protects against thrush and sexually transmitted infections such as the human papilloma (wart) virus (HPV) and syphilis.
Circumcision reduces by up to 5 times the risk of the man’s female partner being infected by Chlamydia or getting cervical cancer (which is caused by HPV). A load of infectious bacteria and viruses that accumulate under the foreskin is delivered into the female genital tract during sex.
If not circumcised soon after birth, up to 5-10% will require one for medical reasons.
In general, the sexual function would be the same or better in circumcised men. The problem of overly tender sensitivity of the head of the penis (possible cause of premature ejaculation) experienced by most uncircumcised men is often improved.
Cosmesis - some men or their partners may prefer the appearance of the circumcised penis.

How is a Circumcision Performed?

Circumcision is a surgical procedure in which the foreskin, the tissue that covers the head of the penis, is removed. Here is an overview of what to expect before, during, and after a circumcision:

Before the procedure:

A healthcare provider will explain the procedure and its risks and benefits to the patient (or the patient's parents or guardians).
The patient will be given instructions on preparing for the procedure, such as fasting or not having anything to eat or drink for a certain amount of time before the surgery.
The patient will be given a local anaesthetic to numb the area before the procedure.

During the procedure:

The procedure typically takes about 30-60 minutes.
The foreskin will be separated from the head of the penis and cut off using a scalpel or scissors.

After the procedure:

The patient will be given pain medication to help with discomfort.
The patient will be instructed to keep the area clean and dry and to avoid sexual activity for a certain amount of time.
The patient will be given instructions on how to care for the wound as it heals, which typically takes about 7 to 10 days.
The patient may experience pain, swelling, and bleeding for the first few days after the procedure.

After the procedure, it is important to follow the post-operative instructions provided by the healthcare provider to ensure that the wound is properly cared for and that the healing process proceeds without complications.

If there are any concerns or signs of complications, such as severe pain, bleeding, or signs of infection, it is important to contact your doctor for further evaluation.

Circumcision Prognosis

The prognosis for circumcision is generally good. The procedure is typically safe, and complications are rare.

Circumcision Risks and Complications

The most common complications include bleeding, infection, and pain. These complications can usually be treated with antibiotics, pain medication, and wound care. In rare cases, more serious complications such as scarring, damage to the urethra, or loss of the penis can occur, but these are extremely rare.

Most people who undergo circumcision experience pain, swelling and bleeding for the first few days after the procedure, but these symptoms typically subside within a week. The wound will heal within 7 to 10 days.

What if Circumcision is Delayed?

If circumcision is delayed, no significant health risks are associated with not having the procedure done. However, certain medical conditions may develop in uncircumcised men, such as phimosis (tightness of the foreskin) or balanitis (inflammation of the head of the penis). These conditions can usually be treated with creams or minor surgery.

If an individual decides to have a circumcision later in life, it is important to be aware that the procedure may be more complicated and take longer to heal than if it was done in infancy. The procedure may also be more painful, and recovery time may be longer.

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