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If you have heard the word “circumcision,” you would most probably know it is done in the newborn period of a boy’s life. It is not unlikely that older boys or adult men undergo this procedure for personal, cultural, or medical reasons. Circumcisions are undoubtedly a controversial issue and, in the majority of the Western World, the decision rests with the parents of the newborn boy. Most commonly, it is a procedure performed in the United States, Canada, the Middle East, Australia, and Africa. It is less common in Asia, Europe, and South America. Parents may choose to circumcise their son for a number of reasons, such as religious beliefs, hygienic concerns, or the belief that it benefits the boy’s health at all stages of his life.

Before making this decision, it is important to know some facts about circumcision and be aware of both the advantages and the potential risks. Overall, it seems that the advantages of male baby circumcision outweigh the negative effects—as the American Academy of Pediatrics Supports. Though it is an ancient religious procedure, it has been thoroughly researched and studied by medical professionals across the globe.

What is it?

Circumcisions are a surgical procedure that refers to the removal of the skin that covers the tip of the penis (also known as foreskin).

What are the advantages?

Some of the health benefits of circumcision include:

• Easier hygiene: the removal of the foreskin makes it easier to wash the penis. Although it enhances good genital hygiene, boys should be taught how to properly clean themselves regardless.
• Decreased risk of urinary tract infections: though the risk of UTIs in males is generally low, UTIs are more common in uncircumcised males.
• Decreased risk of contracting HIV and other sexual transmitted infections. Remember circumcision is not a preventative for STIs, but it does lower the risks of one.
• Prevention of penile problems: the foreskin on an uncircumcised penis can be difficult or impossible to retract, also referred to as phimosis. This can lead to inflammation of the head of the penis, something that circumcision helps prevent against.
• Lower risk of penile cancer: although this is a rare type of cancer, it is less common among circumcised men. In addition, the risks of cervical cancer are lower among the female partners of circumcised men.

What are some risks?

Serious complications associated with circumcision are extremely low, around 0.2%, and mostly associated with circumcisions occurring outside a hospital. Minor complications are about 3%. All risks are minimal when the procedure is carried out by a trained medical professional in a sterile setting.

Some rare complications may include:

• Bleeding at the time of the procedure
• Infection
• Pain
• Deformity to the penis, usually appearing at a later age

Remember you are not medically or legally required to circumcise your baby. If you choose to do it, consult with your doctor and make sure you are comfortable in your decision, as well as