Circumcision is a surgical procedure performed to remove the foreskin of a male baby. This can be performed by either a family physician, pediatrician, or obstetrician.
Newborn circumcision may provide some health advantages, such as a decreased risk of urinary tract infections and cancer of the penis in adulthood. However, these advantages aren’t always guaranteed.
What is Circumcision?
Circumcision Melbourne is a surgical procedure that removes the skin covering the tip of the penis (foreskin). It’s widely practiced around the world, including in countries like the United States and parts of Africa and the Middle East.
Families may opt to circumcize their sons for various reasons. Some do so out of religious sentiment or to prevent disease in the future; while others have medical necessity.
Infants typically undergo circumcision while still in the hospital by a doctor such as a pediatrician or obstetrician. Sometimes acetaminophen is given to reduce pain.
At first, there may be some swelling, redness and possibly some blood. Typically, this should clear up within a week or so.
There are also certain conditions that can make it difficult for your baby’s foreskin to retract from its head of penis. These are known as phimosis, paraphimosis and balanitis.
Why is Circumcision Important?
Circumcised boys appear to be less vulnerable to HIV and other sexually transmitted infections (STIs) during sexual contact. Circumcision also appears to reduce the risk of penile cancer, though its exact cause remains unknown.
The American Academy of Pediatrics suggests parents have an open conversation with their doctor before deciding whether or not to circumcize their son. They should explore both the advantages and risks, as well as their own religious and cultural beliefs and preferences.
Male circumcision can also help guard against certain penis diseases, such as balanitis and urinary tract infection. Unfortunately, these conditions tend to occur more frequently in boys without circumcision and may be harder to treat when they occur.
Contrary to its potential benefits, circumcision is still not widely practiced around the world. In certain places there is discrimination against uncircumcised men which can result in severe social harm. Examples include Xhosa and Luvale tribes in Zambia as well as Bagisu and Lunda in Uganda where non-circumcised individuals are frequently targeted and mistreated.
What Happens During Circumcision?
Before circumcision, parents must be informed about what will take place during the procedure. This will give them insight into what to expect and allow them to make an informed decision about their child’s future.
Anesthetic is used to numb the area during circumcision to help alleviate any pain experienced. Swaddling, oral sugar solutions or acetaminophen may also be administered for additional comfort.
During surgery, the doctor will clamp or clip away excess foreskin from the penis with either a metal or plastic ring-like device, exposing the tip of the penis.
Once cleaned and dressed with ointment, the wound should then be covered in gauze for 7 to 10 days before healing.
Circumcision is usually performed shortly after your baby’s birth (or before they go home from the hospital). It is done for religious or cultural reasons, and most newborns undergo this surgery. However, some babies have health problems that increase the risk of complications. If you would like your child circumcised, make sure you discuss all potential risks and advantages with your doctor first.
What Are the Complications of Circumcision?
Circumcision is a surgical procedure that may be performed on males for medical, cultural and religious reasons. Unfortunately, as with any surgery, there can be potential risks involved.
The most frequent risk of bleeding after circumcision is excessive bleeding. While this amount should not exceed what is expected (a few drops), any excessive bleeding should be carefully monitored for potential issues.
Another potential risk is urinary retention, or when urine cannot pass through the bladder. This condition has serious potential and could result in infection or kidney failure.
In addition to bleeding and urinary retention, other minor risks can also arise after circumcision.
One of the more frequent late complications after circumcision is penile skin bridges. These adhesions form between the wound formed during circumcision and the glans, and they can lead to irritation or infections in the penile area.