Common Post-baby circumcision questions
Baby circumcision is a common practice dating back to ancient Egypt. The procedure typically involves the removal of the baby’s foreskin, that is, the hood of skin covering the head of their penis. It’s a relatively simple procedure with minimal chances of complications. However, it’s not uncommon for parents to have questions and concerns about the procedure itself and post circumcision care. In this article, we will tackle the issue of post circumcision care, covering some of the most common questions we receive from parents. Without further ado, let’s jump in.
Is it normal for my baby to be fussy after circumcision?
Yes. Your baby may be fussy and irritable after the procedure, especially during the first 24-hours. That’s because the tip of the penis may be tender and sore. As a result, their sleeping and feeding habits may change. However, the pain should ease up three to four days after the circumcision procedure. You can easily manage the pain with over-the-counter drugs like acetaminophen. Please consult your mohel or doctor on how much medication you should administer if needed.
Can I bathe my baby after circumcision?
It’s best to avoid full-body bathing after the surgery. Your baby can make do with a good sponge bath during the first 48 hours. After the two days elapse, you can bathe your baby boy as normal in a tub of warm water. Be gentle when bathing the incision area. Change their diaper often and fasten it loosely to ward off infection.
Should I expect any bleeding?
A small amount of bleeding is not unusual, more so during the first three days. In most cases, it often results from the diaper rubbing on the wound. To avoid sticking, you can apply a dab of petroleum jelly with each diaper change. The bleeding should typically stop on its own. However, you should seek medical assistance immediately if the bleeding amounts to more than a teaspoon or is persistent.
How long will it take for my baby’s penis to look normal?
As mentioned earlier, the tip of the penis will look red for the first few days. The penis itself may also look swollen, and you may notice a yellow scabbing. Don’t worry. This is perfectly normal. In fact, these are usually signs that your baby is healing. We recommend applying an antibiotic cream like Neosporin Bacitracin or petroleum jelly at the tip of the penis. This will help reduce sensitivity around the area and promote healing. It often takes about seven to ten days for the penis to start looking normal.
When should I be concerned?
Most of the time, babies recover from circumcision without any complications. But that’s not to say complications can’t arise. You should call your doctor if:
- Your baby is actively or excessively bleeding.
- Notice extreme swelling or redness around the penis.
- See signs of infection like pus.
- Your baby experiences a fever.
- Your baby can’t pass urine or just dribbles urine.