Snip Happens: Answering Questions About Circumcision
Welcoming a newborn into the world is a time filled with joy, decisions, and a plethora of new experiences. One decision some parents consider is whether to have their newborn circumcised. Circumcision is a surgical procedure that involves the removal of the foreskin from the penis. While it has cultural, religious, and personal significance for many families, understanding the procedure and its implications is crucial for making an informed choice.
Snip, Snip Hooray… or Nay?
Circumcision is a hot topic among new parents, and it's a decision that can be tough to make. Whether you're considering circumcision for cultural, religious, or health reasons, it's essential to weigh the benefits and risks before making a choice. Here's what you need to know about circumcision to help you make an informed decision for your little one.
It's a heavy topic, I know. And there's a lot of debate around it. But as the dad, you play a key role in understanding the process and making sure your little guy stays comfortable and safe throughout.
What is Circumcision?
So let's break it down. Circumcision is the surgical removal of the foreskin - that protective sheath of skin covering the tip of the penis. It's a common cultural and religious practice, and many parents opt for it for reasons like hygiene or tradition.
The procedure itself is usually done within the first few days after birth, often right there in the hospital. It's a relatively quick, minimally invasive process when performed by an experienced provider. Many providers use lidocaine to numb the penis as completely as possible for the procedure to minimize discomfort to the baby. There's also a gloved finger or pacifier dipped in breastmilk or a sweet sugary solution that can provide additional comfort.
Are There Benefits?
The American Academy of Pediatrics says there can be some benefits including:
- Lower risk of acquiring certain sexually transmitted diseases including genital herpes(HSV), human papilloma virus(HPV), and HIV (the virus that causes AIDS).
- Lower risk of urinary tract infections(UTI) as an infant. Note: UTIs are uncommon in males at any age.
- Lower risk of getting penile cancer. Note: Penile cancer is rare.
- Reduced rate of cervical cancer in future partners. Most likely related to lower risk of getting HPV.
- Easier hygiene. Studies of uncircumcised school-age boys showed that hygiene was not well-maintained.
What About The Risks?
- Not enough or too much skin removal.
- Bleeding, typically this is mild and controlled with pressure or a special dressing.
- Infection, which is rare and usually treated with antibiotics.
- Pain, which is usually mild and controlled with acetaminophen or ibuprofen.
- Meatal stenosis, a narrowing of the urethra (tube that urine comes out of) that can cause painful urination. This is more common in circumcised males.
- Adhesions, where the remaining foreskin sticks to the head of the penis.
Concerns About Changes In Sensitivity:
While there have been concerns raise about decreased sensitivity and sexual sensation, a combined review of 36 studies did not find this to be the case.
What Is The Overall Opinion?
Most organizations straddle the line of benefits to risks, since the overall benefits and risk are pretty balanced. They basically say, we're not going to recommend one way or the other, but leave it up to each individual family to decide what's best for them.
Ok It's Done, Now What?
Caring for your son's circumcision is much easier than you think and it heals quickly. Depending on the method used to circumcise the baby, sometimes the care can vary. In many cases, you will apply some vaseline to a gauze pad and place that gently on the head of the penis. This helps keep it from sticking to the diaper. Usually this is for 5-7 days, but your provider will have more specific instructions. You might see some redness on the penis, but you should not see any actively bleeding sites (no drip, drip, drip of blood).
Call your baby's healthcare provider if you see any of these:
- Continous bleeding from the penis.
- The baby doesn't pee within 6 to 8 hours.
- The redness or swelling doesn't improve within 3 days or gets worse.
- The baby has a fever above 100.4°F(38°C).
- You are worried and feel like you need to call the healthcare provider.
The Bottom line
There's no one-size-fits-all approach here. Whatever you and your partner decide, the key is that you both feel informed and confident in the choice. So don't be afraid to ask questions, lean on your healthcare team, and give your little guy all the TLC he needs.
