Circumcision: Yes or no?

Since World War II, routine circumcision (the surgical removal of the foreskin at the end of the penis) has been a medically and socially accepted procedure in the United States. In other parts of the world, very few babies are circumcised.

Today, this is changing. The routine practice of circumcision has been declining in this country.

You and your partner should weigh current information and make your decision before you go to the hospital.

Factors to consider

No clear medical reason for circumcision has been validated by research. In 1999, the American Academy of Pediatrics issued a statement that there is no health reason for circumcision. The Academy does not advocate routine circumcision and suggests that parents discuss the risks and benefits with their doctors.

Some parents choose to circumcise their sons with love and honor as part of their religious tradition. Some parents choose not to have their sons circumcised.

Other factors to consider about circumcision:

• An intact foreskin is as "normal" and common as a circumcised one.
• Surgical complications of infection, bleeding and the chance of the foreskin being cut too short or too long are possible.
• The newborn feels physical pain. (The American Academy of Pediatrics recommends that pain relief be given before and after circumcision is performed.)
• The foreskin is an important part of the body, necessary for the protection of the tip of the penis. If circumcised, the exposed end of the penis may become irritated and may cause the opening of the penis to become too small and require surgical correction.

Is it painful?

Many parents worry about the circumcision being painful. A local anesthetic can be injected into the penis before the procedure and has been shown to lower pain and stress.

Baby boys who are circumcised without pain medicine may show discomfort several hours after and may not resume normal eating patterns for 24 hours. So If you have chosen to circumcise your son and intend to breastfeed, it is a good idea to delay this surgery until breastfeeding has been well established.

What's best for your family?

Your decision regarding circumcision should be based on the facts you gather from your prenatal education and your health care providers. This information can help you decide what is best for your family.

If you choose not to circumcise your son's penis His penis needs no special care. Simply wash the genital area with soap and water at bath time. Do not force the foreskin back. As he grows, the foreskin will loosen on its own. This can take three or more years. As your son grows and the foreskin can be pulled back, he can then be taught how to care for his penis.

If you choose circumcision Ask your baby's health care provider now about using pain medicine for your baby during and after the procedure. If you intend to breastfeed, it is a good idea to delay this surgery until breastfeeding has been well established. Follow instructions on circumcision care.

Related Links

Circumcision care, Foreskin care

Pregnancy & Parenting eMagazine: To circumcise or not?

Your newborn

Pediatric specialists

American Academy of Pediatrics: Circumcision policy statement

First published: 10/04/2002
Last updated: 06/19/2003

Reviewed by: Allina Patient Education experts