Introduction:
Circumcision is the surgical removal of the skin covering the tip of a baby's penis called glans.
Benefits:
- Circumcision makes it simpler to wash the penis.
- Decreased risk of urinary tract infections.
- Decreased risk of sexually transmitted infections.
- Prevention of penile problems.
- Decreased risk of penile cancer.
When is circumcision done?
It is usually done within 10 days after birth.
Process:
- The baby will lie on his back, and his penis and surrounding area must be cleansed.
- Anesthetic will be injected into the base of the penis or applied to the penis (topical anesthetic).
- A special clamp or plastic ring will be attached to the penis.
- The foreskin will be removed. Then, the penis will be covered with an ointment.
- After that, the penis will be wrapped loosely with gauze.
Duration:
The procedure generally takes about 10 minutes.
Healing:
It usually takes seven to 10 days for the penis to heal.
Tips for Parents:
- Maintain the surrounding area as clean and dry as possible, and gently clean it with warm water.
- Avoid pressing or putting pressure on the penis while carrying the baby.
- It is normal to notice a small amount of yellow fluid on the tip of the penis.
- Change your baby's diaper often, and make sure the diaper is loosely fastened.
- Apply a dab of petroleum jelly (or Vaseline) to the tip of the penis to keep it from sticking to the diaper.
- Avoid using baby’s tissues on the penis until it heals.
- Do not remove the plastic ring around the penis; as it will drop off on its own.
- The doctor may prescribe an antibiotic ointment or Vaseline on the tip of the penis, with changing the diaper until the ring is dropped.
- Once the penis heals, wash it with water and soap during normal bathing.
Contact the doctor if:
- Normal urination doesn't resume within 12 hours after circumcision.
- There is foul-smelling drainage from the tip of the penis, or persistent bleeding.
- The plastic ring remains in place two weeks after circumcision.
FAQs:
- Is it useful to apply oils (e.g. olive oil, watermelon oil) on the circumcised penis?
- There is no scientific study or evidence proving this.
- Is there any risk factors on the baby in case of delayed circumcision?
Misconceptions:
- Putting pressure on the baby’s penis by a coffee cup accelerates wound healing.
- Circumcision negatively affects male fertility.
- Fact: Circumcision does not affect fertility.