Benefits of Circumcision in Male Children - Navigating the Process

Understanding Circumcision for Male Children

When considering circumcision for your male child, it’s crucial to have a comprehensive understanding of the procedure, its benefits, and the appropriate age for this decision. The surgical removal of the skin covering the tip of the penis is known as circumcision. For newborn boys, the operation is fairly prevalent in some regions of the world (the United States included). After the infant stage, circumcision is still possible, although the process is more involved. You can have the optional surgery done at any age. But the first month of a baby's existence is when it's most frequently done.

Circumcision is a decision made by certain families due to cultural or religious reasons. Additionally, there may be a few medical advantages, such as:

• UTI, or urinary tract infection: Children who are circumcised are somewhat less likely to get a UTI.
• Penile cancer: Penile cancer is already an uncommon cancer in the United States; the surgery somewhat reduces the likelihood of developing it.

Because the treatment is uncomfortable, the area is made numb by a local anaesthetic. The infant is awake throughout the procedure. The Plastibell (ring) procedure is one way to become circumcised. Using this technique, a ring is wrapped around the glans or head of the penis.

What is the Procedure of Circumcision?

The procedure known as circumcision entails surgically removing the foreskin from the tip of the penis. Usually, this regular surgery is carried out in the early years of life or soon after delivery. The process of circumcision is not very complicated. Either surgical scissors or a scalpel is used to remove the foreskin from immediately behind the penis's head. Dissolvable stitches will be used to sew the remaining skin edges together once any bleeding has been stopped with heat (cauterization).

Circumcision is a surgical procedure that removes the foreskin of the penis. The procedure involves:

• Cleaning the penis and foreskin
• Attaching a clamp to the penis
• Cutting and removing the foreskin
• Stopping any bleeding with heat
• Placing gauze with petroleum jelly over the wound

The entire procedure takes about 20 minutes. Some families choose circumcision for cultural or religious reasons. On the eighth day after birth, a religious authority known as a mohel removes a newborn boy's foreskin during a custom known as a brit milah. The two most frequent post-circumcision issues are bleeding and infection. Anaesthesia-related side effects are also possible. Pain is usually mild to moderate after circumcision. Younger patients generally have more discomfort. Severe pain is rare and mostly related to complications.

Why Should You Consider Circumcising Your Child?

Although cultural and personal reasons frequently play a role in this decision, there are many benefits of circumcision with possible health benefits. In the first year of life, a circumcised male has a one in 1,000 chance of developing a UTI. In the first year of life, an uncircumcised newborn has a one in a hundred risk of developing a UTI. and a somewhat decreased chance of contracting HIV and other sexually transmitted infections (STDs). a decreased chance of penile cancer. These could consist of:

• Improved Hygiene: Circumcision can contribute to improved hygiene as it removes the foreskin, which may sometimes trap moisture and bacteria. Without the foreskin, maintaining cleanliness becomes more straightforward, potentially reducing the risk of various infections that could arise from bacterial accumulation in the genital area. This enhanced cleanliness may particularly benefit infants and young children who might not be able to practice thorough hygiene routines independently.
• Reduced UTI Risk: Studies have indicated that circumcision might correlate with a decreased likelihood of urinary tract infections (UTIs) in male infants. UTIs in young boys can potentially lead to kidney problems if left untreated. Removing the foreskin might reduce the risk of UTIs as bacteria may be less likely to accumulate around the urinary opening without the protective covering of the foreskin.
• Reduced STI Transmission Rates: Studies have hypothesised a potential connection between lower incidence of STIs like HIV and HPV and circumcision. Although there is still a chance of contracting these illnesses, research has indicated that those who have had their circumcision have a decreased incidence of STIs. This may be because the foreskin is removed, which decreases the possibility of some bacteria entering the body and causing diseases.
• Prevention of Penile Conditions: Circumcision may aid in preventing certain penile conditions such as phimosis or balanitis. Phimosis is a condition where the foreskin is too tight to retract over the head of the penis, potentially causing discomfort and complications. Balanitis is the inflammation of the foreskin, often due to poor hygiene or infection. By removing the foreskin, circumcision may decrease the chances of these conditions developing, contributing to overall penile health.

What is the Appropriate Age for Circumcising Your Child?

The ideal age for circumcision varies. Some families opt for the procedure soon after birth, while others prefer it during early childhood. Discussing with healthcare providers helps determine the best timing based on individual considerations. You can become circumcised at any age. It's customary to perform it within the first month of your baby's life, or shortly after birth.

The procedure is uncomfortable, therefore, the baby is given a local anaesthetic to numb the area, and the surgery is done while the baby is awake. You can become circumcised at any age.  The majority of circumcisions take place within the first ten days of a baby's life. Some reasons families choose to circumcise include:

• Cultural or religious beliefs
• Hygiene
• Appearance

Adult circumcision rates are lower. For private or health-related reasons, some families could decide to circumcise their children later. For instance, if a child has recurrent foreskin infections and does not improve with treatment, a doctor might recommend circumcision. It's essential to make an informed decision regarding your child's circumcision, weighing the medical aspects without emotional influence. Always consult healthcare professionals to understand the procedure's implications fully.

Remember, the decision to circumcise a child is personal, and factors such as cultural, religious, and medical considerations influence it. Ensuring a comfortable, informative environment can help make this decision with confidence.

By focusing on the medical aspects of circumcision without emotional influence, this content aims to provide parents with a clear understanding of the procedure, the potential benefits of circumcision, and the considerations regarding the appropriate age for circumcision.

At MediBuddy, we aim to present reliable medical information, empowering individuals to make informed healthcare decisions. For more healthcare insights and reliable information, explore MediBuddy's platform.

References

1. https://kidshealth.org/en/parents/circumcision.html
2. https://medlineplus.gov/circumcision.html
3. https://www.healthline.com/health/parenting/baby-circumcision
4. https://www.hopkinsmedicine.org/news/articles/2012/10/greater-benefits-of-infant-circumcision
5. https://circumcisioncentre.co.uk/circumcision-information/benefits-of-circumcision/