What should I know about circumcision?

Summary

Circumcision is one of the most common surgical procedures in the world, performed for cultural, religious, or medical reasons. The procedure involves removing the foreskin from the tip of the penis and is most commonly performed on newborns. When done by an experienced physician, circumcision is safe with a low complication rate and a short recovery period for both newborns and adults.

Key Highlights

– Understand that circumcision removes the foreskin and is commonly performed on newborns for various reasons
– Know that circumcision is a safe procedure with a low complication rate when performed by trained physicians
– Learn that health benefits include reduced risk of urinary tract infections and certain sexually transmitted infections
– Recognise that circumcision does not affect sexual function, fertility, or hormone levels at any age
– Prepare by discussing the decision with your physician and understanding what to expect during recovery

 

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.

FAQ’s

What exactly happens during a circumcision procedure?

During circumcision, a physician removes the foreskin (prepuce) that covers the tip of the penis. The procedure is performed under local anaesthesia for newborns and adults. For newborns, a clamp device is typically used, while adult circumcisions involve surgical cutting and suturing. The procedure is brief and performed in a clinical or outpatient setting.

What are the reasons families choose circumcision?

Families choose circumcision for a variety of reasons, including religious or cultural traditions, potential health benefits such as reduced infection risk, improved hygiene, or personal preference. Some circumcisions are performed for medical reasons such as phimosis or recurrent balanitis. The decision is personal and typically made in consultation with a healthcare provider.

What are the potential risks of circumcision?

Circumcision is a low-risk procedure, but as with any surgery, minor complications can occur. These include mild bleeding, infection, or poor cosmetic outcome in rare cases. Serious complications are very uncommon when the procedure is performed by an experienced physician under proper conditions. Your physician will discuss all risks during the consultation.

How do I care for the circumcision site during recovery?

For newborns, apply a small amount of petroleum jelly to the incision with each diaper change for the first week to prevent irritation. For adults, keep the area clean and dry, wear loose clothing, and avoid strenuous activity for one to two weeks. Your clinic will provide detailed aftercare instructions following the procedure.

 

Author Bio: Dr. Jean-Philippe Bercier is a Canadian physician and Medical Director of Clinique Vasectomie. Trained at the University of Ottawa, he has a background in family medicine, hospital medicine, and obstetrics. He specializes in no-scalpel, no-needle vasectomy techniques and has performed more than 25,000 procedures across Ontario and Quebec.