Circumcision—Yes or No?

Should your newborn son be circumcised?

That’s a question few American parents discuss in detail, says pediatrician Amil Qureshi, D.O., of Lehigh Valley Hospital and Health Network. “Most American men are circumcised,” he says, “so most parents simply want their son to be the same.” Circumcision is the surgical removal of the sleeve of skin (foreskin) that covers the head of the penis. The United States is one of many places in the world where it’s done routinely. But rather than just following custom, Qureshi recommends that you discuss the pros and cons of circumcision with your pediatrician so you can make an informed decision.

Reasons to circumcise

It has potential health benefits. Circumcised infants have fewer urinary tract infections and a lower chance of developing cancer of the penis later in life, says Brian Murphy, M.D., a Lehigh Valley Hospital and Health Network urologist. “But penile cancer is extremely rare, even in uncircumcised males. Urinary tract infections also are uncommon, and while they can be serious in rare cases, most are easily treated,” he says.

It’s a very safe procedure. Most complications, such as soreness or bruising, are not serious, Murphy says.

It provides reassurance to the boy. He’ll look the same as dad and most of the other boys in the locker room.

Reasons not to circumcise

It’s not medically necessary. Leading organizations including the American Academy of Pediatrics say the potential benefits aren’t enough to recommend circumcision for medical reasons.

It’s painful. For the last 15 years, pediatricians have agreed that infant boys feel the pain of circumcision and should always receive anesthesia. It’s usually given in combination—an analgesic in concentrated sugar water on the tongue, and a local anesthetic injected at the base of the penis. “This pain relief is about 70 percent effective,” Qureshi says.

It’s not necessary for good hygiene. “It’s very easy to keep an uncircumcised penis clean,” Qureshi says. “Your pediatrician will discuss proper cleaning when the child is born.”

This page last updated 2/12/08 04:08 PM