Male Circumcision Procedure
Overview
Circumcision is a surgical procedure that removes the foreskin covering the end of the penis. Doctors commonly perform this procedure on male newborns in some countries, such as the United States.
Adults can also undergo circumcision, though it is less common. In these cases, the procedure may be done for medical, cultural, or personal reasons. Healing tends to take longer in adults, and the risk of complications—such as pain, infection, or slower recovery—is generally higher than in newborns.
Reasons for Choosing Circumcision
People choose circumcision for a variety of reasons, including religious beliefs, cultural traditions, personal preferences, and medical considerations. In some communities, such as Jewish and Islamic groups, circumcision is a long-standing religious practice.
Others may opt for it based on hygiene, perceived health benefits, or family customs. Healthcare providers and parents may also consider the potential health advantages.
While not guaranteed, certain benefits have been associated with circumcision:
| Potential Benefit | Details |
|---|---|
| Hygiene | Makes washing the penis easier and helps some people maintain personal cleanliness. |
| Lower UTI Risk | Uncircumcised males have a higher chance of urinary tract infections, especially in early life. |
| Reduced STI Risk | Can lessen the chances of getting some sexually transmitted infections, including HIV. |
| Prevents Penile Problems | Lowers the risk of conditions like phimosis and paraphimosis. |
| Lower Risk of Penile Cancer | Penile cancer is very rare, but happens less often in men who have been circumcised. |
In areas where HIV is widespread, circumcision is sometimes part of public health strategies to reduce transmission. It may also offer some protection against other sexually transmitted diseases.
However, good hygiene can help prevent many of the same issues, whether someone is circumcised or not. Doctors may recommend circumcision to treat or prevent specific medical conditions. For example:
- Phimosis – when the foreskin is too tight to pull back over the head of the penis, causing pain or increasing the risk of infection.
- Paraphimosis – when the foreskin becomes trapped behind the glans and cannot return to its normal position, potentially leading to swelling or restricted blood flow.
Circumcision is not medically necessary for every child. It may be avoided if the baby has certain health conditions, such as bleeding disorders, prematurity, or anatomical differences that require special care.
Possible Problems
Circumcision can lead to some health risks, although most are mild and manageable. The most common issues are bleeding and infection. A few drops of blood are typical after the procedure, and applying direct pressure usually stops the bleeding.
However, more serious bleeding or signs of infection—such as redness, swelling, or pus—may require medical attention. Pain is also common, especially if the effects of anesthesia or pain relief wear off too soon.
Healing challenges can occasionally arise. In some cases, the foreskin may be removed too much or too little, leading to cosmetic or functional concerns. Rarely, leftover skin may stick to the tip of the penis—a condition known as an adhesion—which might need a follow-up procedure to correct.
Below is a table listing possible complications:
| Issue | Description |
|---|---|
| Infection | Redness, swelling, or pus at the site. |
| Bleeding | Ongoing or heavy blood loss. |
| Pain | Discomfort during or after the procedure. |
| Scarring | Visible marks appear as the skin heals. |
| Adhesions | Foreskin sticking to the tip, needing repair. |
| Meatal stenosis | Narrowing of the tip opening. |
| Balanitis | Swelling or infection of the glans. |
Other rare complications include problems with anesthesia or improper healing, especially if the procedure is not performed by a trained medical professional. To lower the risk of complications, circumcision should always be done in a safe, sterile setting by a qualified provider.
Steps for Getting Ready
Before the procedure, individuals should discuss pain relief options with their healthcare provider. These may include a dorsal penile nerve block, ring block, general anesthesia, or other types of numbing medication. Written consent is typically required.
Maintaining basic hygiene before the procedure is also important. Additionally, aftercare supplies such as petroleum jelly and gelfoam may be needed to support healing and comfort during recovery.
What You Can Expect
What Happens During Surgery
Doctors typically perform circumcision on newborns in a hospital within the first week after birth. The baby is laid on their back, with arms and legs gently secured to keep them still during the procedure.
A healthcare provider—often a pediatric urologist—cleans the area and applies anesthesia to reduce pain. This may be a topical cream or an injection at the base of the penis.
To perform the procedure, doctors use specialized tools such as a Mogen clamp or Plastibell device. These instruments help remove the foreskin safely while minimizing bleeding (a process called hemostasis). For newborns, the entire procedure typically takes no more than 10 minutes.
For older boys and adults, circumcision is usually done in a clinic or hospital setting. In these cases, general anesthesia is often used, meaning the patient is fully asleep during the surgery. While this provides greater comfort, it may also increase recovery time and potential risks.
After the procedure, the provider applies an ointment—such as petroleum jelly or antibiotic cream—and loosely wraps the area with gauze to protect the site and promote healing.
Pain Relief Methods Table
| Method | Age Group | Type |
|---|---|---|
| Topical Cream | Newborn | Local anesthesia |
| Injection | Newborn | Local anesthesia |
| General anesthesia | Older children and adults | Patient is asleep |
What To Expect After the Surgery
Healing after circumcision usually takes about one to one-and-a-half weeks. The tip of the penis may feel sore, appear purple or red, and look slightly bruised. Some swelling or a small amount of yellowish fluid near the area is normal.
In newborns, caregivers should change the bandage every time they change the diaper. Applying a dab of petroleum jelly or antibiotic ointment helps protect the area and prevents the diaper from sticking.
If a baby receives a Plastibell device, it typically falls off by itself after about one week to ten days. Until the area heals, take gentle care: wash with warm water and mild soap, then pat dry carefully.
Caregivers should put diapers on loosely and change them often to keep the area clean. After the penis heals, wash it regularly with soap and water.
Care Checklist After Circumcision
- Change dressings with each diaper change.
- Use gentle cleansers.
- Apply ointment as needed.
- Loosen diapers.
- Watch for unusual symptoms.
When To Contact a Healthcare Provider
Most circumcisions heal without complications, but it’s important to watch for signs that may require medical attention. Contact a healthcare provider if any of the following occur:
- No urination within 12 hours.
- Fever or unusual irritability.
- Persistent or heavy bleeding.
- Discoloration of the tip several days after the procedure.
- Foul-smelling discharge.
- Plastibell device remains after two weeks or slips down the shaft.
Recognizing these signs early can help prevent further issues and support proper healing. If you’re unsure whether a symptom is normal, it’s best to check with your provider.
