Circumcision is a medical procedure for baby boys to remove the flap of skin (foreskin) covering the head of the penis. While circumcision rates vary in the US, 55-65% of all boys are circumcised. Parents may choose circumcision for health concerns, or cultural reasons, making it a highly personalized decision. At American Pediatrics, with offices in Corona, Eastvale, and Irvine, California, the caring team provides safe circumcision procedures, allowing you to rest assured that your child is in good hands. To learn more, call the nearest office or book an in-person appointment online today. Telehealth consultations are also available.
Circumcision refers to the surgical removal of the hood of skin that covers the tip of your baby boy’s penis. While circumcision is a fairly common procedure for newborn babies in many parts of the world, it’s a highly personalized decision. After the newborn period, circumcision may be more difficult.
For some families, circumcision is part of a cultural tradition or religious ritual. It can also make personal hygiene easier. Circumcision may also prevent future health issues, reducing your child’s risk of penile problems (such as inflammation of the foreskin and penile cancer).
In some cases, circumcision becomes a medical need. For instance, when the foreskin is too tight to be pulled over the glans. Your child’s provider may recommend the procedure to prevent sexually transmitted diseases in later life.
Circumcision might not be suitable for premature babies still requiring hospital care, or babies with certain penile abnormalities or blood-clotting disorders. After your child gets the procedure, it doesn’t affect fertility or normal sexual pleasure.
As with any surgical procedure, it’s important to understand that circumcision comes with risks that should be carefully considered.
The rate of circumcision complications is low, but some risks to consider are bleeding and infection. The specific risks depend on your baby’s overall health and well-being.
The skin of the penis is quite sensitive after getting circumcision, and sometimes the area may become irritated with the baby’s diaper or urine. Your provider may recommend applying petroleum jelly to the area and changing diapers frequently for a couple of days. These side effects usually resolve on their own.
Newborn circumcision is typically performed in a hospital or appropriate medical office within 10 days of birth. If you decide to proceed with circumcision, your child’s specialist has your baby lie on their back with his arms and legs restrained. They then clean the penis and the surrounding area before applying an anesthetic to its base.
Their specialist then carefully attaches a special clamp or plastic ring and removes the foreskin. Lastly, they cover the penis with a topical antibiotic or petroleum jelly, and wrap it loosely with gauze. From start to finish, the procedure takes around 10 minutes.
For older boys, the procedure might require general anesthesia and the recovery process may take longer.
In general, the penis heals around 7-10 days. Following circumcision, the tip may look a little red, bruised, or swollen. It’s important to follow your provider’s instructions to ensure a faster and smoother recovery.
If you have questions about circumcision, call American Pediatrics or book an appointment online today.