Circumcision

What is newborn circumcision?

When should circumcision be performed?

How is circumcision done?

Is circumcision required?

Are there any health benefits that are associated with circumcision?

Is there anything that I should take into consideration before getting my child circumcised?

There are many questions that parents have when considering to circumcise their baby boys. For some people this may be a difficult decision and we would love to help you get some more insight on what it is exactly, and the pros and cons of newborn circumcision.

What is newborn circumcision?

For male circumcision, parents will discuss with their doctor whether they should have the foreskin surgically removed. The foreskin is the outer layer of skin that covers the head of a male’s penis. 

When should circumcision be performed?

Once parents have decided that they would like to have their child circumcised, the circumcision procedure may be performed while they are still in the hospital after birth or after they leave the hospital. Circumcision should only be performed if the baby is healthy enough to do so. If the baby happens to have a medical condition that is restricting the performance of a circumcision, it may be postponed for a later date. 

How is circumcision done?

Circumcision actually only takes a few minutes to be performed. During circumcision, the baby will be placed on a specially designed table. The doctors will then follow some simple steps to complete the procedure. These steps typically include: 

• Cleaning of the penis and the foreskin
• A medical device that looks like a clamp, is attached to the penis and then the foreskin is removed
• Gauze containing petroleum jelly is placed over the wound to protect and help heal

Is circumcision required?

Circumcision is not a procedure that is required by law and because circumcision is an optional procedure, it may not be covered by certain health insurance policies. To find out whether or not circumcision is covered by insurance, your medical health insurance provider or you can talk to your doctor/pediatrician to see if their office is able to find out for you. 

Are there any health benefits that are associated with circumcision?

There are various health benefits to having a child circumcised. Circumcision actually reduces the number of bacteria that is able to develop and live under the child’s foreskin. This includes the bacteria that causes urinary tract infections (UTIs) or, in adults – sexually transmitted infections (STIs). During their first year of life, studies have shown that infants that are circumcised have less of a risk of developing urinary tract infections opposed to infants that are uncircumcised. 

Is there anything that I should take into consideration before getting my child circumcised?

It is rather important for parents to have and know all of the information about the benefits and possible risks of having their child circumcised before making a firm decision. Parents may have a lot to think about, taking into consideration future health benefits, any religious or cultural beliefs, and their personal preference. It is important for parents to remember that circumcision is an optional procedure, that it is by no means required. If parents have any questions or concerns, it’s important to speak openly with the ob-gyn or other medical professional during pregnancy – this allows enough time for parents to make a well-informed decision for their child.