What should I know about circumcision?

It’s estimated that about one-third of Canadian men are circumcised. A circumcision is a surgical procedure performed on males to remove the foreskin on the penis. If you’re considering circumcision in Gatineau or Ottawa, whether for your newborn, your child, or yourself, get answers to your questions from an experienced doctor.

Why do boys and men get circumcised?

There are many reasons people choose circumcision, whether for their child or for themselves. Religious and cultural traditions are common reasons. Some choose circumcision because the father is circumcised, while older youth and adults may choose it for medical reasons, such as phimosis (a foreskin that is too tight), or for personal preference. Circumcision is a choice, but there are some important benefits. It makes it easier to keep the end of the penis clean. There is less risk of urinary tract infections and a reduced risk of sexually transmitted infections in men.

What age is best for circumcision?

A circumcision can be done at any age, from infancy through youth to adulthood. Traditionally, circumcisions are done before the baby goes home from the hospital following birth or in the first few weeks after being born. In some religious or cultural traditions, circumcision is usually done when the boy is 7 or 8 days old. Youth aged 10 to 18 may be eligible for the procedure. Suitability is confirmed during a consultation, and consent is obtained in accordance with Ontario law, based on the patient’s capacity to understand the procedure, its risks, benefits, alternatives, and consequences. When appropriate, a parent or guardian is involved in the consultation and decision-making process.

Is a circumcision painful?

Surgical procedures generally cause some degree of pain. During the procedure, the doctor will use a local anesthetic to numb the area that is cut. Without pain management techniques, a circumcision is painful. The circumcision only takes about 5 to 10 minutes on a baby, and around 15 minutes for youth and adult patients. Generally speaking, Infant Tylenol may be recommended for pain following the surgery on a baby, but it is neither needed nor recommended for longer use beyond the first few days. For youth and adult patients, over-the-counter pain relievers such as acetaminophen are typically sufficient for the mild soreness that follows the procedure.

How long does it take for circumcision to heal?

Babies who are circumcised usually heal in a few days to two weeks. The area may appear a little bruised or red for a few days. For youth and adults, healing takes longer. Most patients resume light activities within a day or two, but complete healing of the wound can take up to seven or eight weeks, during which strenuous activity should be avoided—for adults and sexually active patients this includes sexual activity. If the patient is your child, plan around school sports and gym class during this period.

Does circumcision affect performance?

Many studies have been done to determine whether circumcision affects sexual performance later in life. Researchers have not found any adverse impact on penile sensitivity, orgasm, sexual function, satisfaction, and pleasure. Circumcision does not cause erectile dysfunction or pain during sex—those are simply myths!

Get information about circumcision.

If you’re becoming a parent to a baby boy, considering the procedure for your child, or thinking about circumcision for yourself, our office can help you get answers. Make an appointment for a consultation for circumcision in the Ottawa or Gatineau area.