What should I know about circumcision? 26 Oct

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

Why do boys get circumcised?

There are many reasons people choose circumcision for their son. Religious and cultural traditions are common reasons. Some choose circumcision because the father is circumcised. 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 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. Men can choose to be circumcised as an adult if they were not circumcised at birth.

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. Generally speaking, Infant Tylenol may be recommended for pain following the surgery, but it is neither needed nor recommended for longer use beyond the first few days.

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.

Does circumcision affect performance?

Many studies have been done to determine whether circumcision affects sexual performance when the boy grows up. 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 and you have questions about circumcision, our office can help you get answers. Make an appointment for a consultation for circumcision in the Ottawa or Gatineau area.