To Circumcise or Not to Circumcise
So you’re expecting a baby boy– congratulations! Like all children little boys are such a delight and will bring you a lifetime of joy. You, like most parents, may be at the point where you’re trying to decide whether or not you will have your newborn son circumcised. This is a big decision as there are many individuals on both sides of the debate, arguing one way or another. However there are a number of reputable medical resources, including the American Academy of Pediatrics who suggest that the benefits out circumcision outweigh the risks. With that being said, here are 5 important things to consider when deciding to circumcise or not to circumcise your son.
1. Personal Beliefs and Values. Perhaps one of the most important factors to consider when deciding whether to circumcise or not to circumcise, is what you and your partner’s feelings are regarding the topic of circumcision (WebMD, 2014). It is important that the two of you agree or at least have an understanding regarding this matter. Most often parents decide whether to circumcise or not to circumcise their son based on personal beliefs and values, and in most cases these beliefs are based on religion. If this is the case, you may want to research your religion’s practices when it comes to circumcision, as they can often vary based on your specific faith.
2. Hygiene. The purpose of the foreskin is to protect the head of the penis. Having this extra skin results in abnormal secretions accumulating beneath the foreskin, requiring the foreskin to be retracted and the secretions to be gently removed (Dr. Sears, 2015). This can be taken care of by simply retracting the foreskin and cleaning underneath while bathing; however, although this is a simple maintenance task, often time young boys forget to do this and as a result the foreskin can get infected. If you choose to have your son circumcised this will no longer be an issue because the foreskin is completely removed and the entire penile area can easily be washed without any additional steps.
3. Health Benefits. According to WebMD some of the potential health benefits of circumcision include lower risks of urinary tract infections (UTIs) in little boys, certain STDs in men, and penile cancer (WebMD, 2014). In addition to this the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) reports that the health benefits of newborn male circumcision outweigh the risks (kidshealth, 2013). Generally speaking, males who undergo circumcision as infants lower their risks for contracting a number of diseases and illness.
4. Age. Most often circumcisions can be performed on males of any age, this includes adults. However, circumcisions performed on adult males are usually done after the individual has experience some sort trauma or infection, at which point the circumcision becomes medically necessary. Although there is no specific age requirement to undergo the procedure, medical professionals have suggested that circumcisions are most effective in the prevention of certain diseases and infections, when they are performed shortly after the child’s birth. With all this said it is important to note that some religions specify the age when males should be circumcised. Therefore, you as the parent will need to take this into account when deciding when to have the procedure done.
5. Doctor. As with any medical procedure, the type of doctor you choose to carry it out is critical. Some pediatricians no longer perform this type of procedure, and despite medical evidence of its benefits, others will recommend against. Mohels, Jewish persons trained in the field of circumcision, are often a favorable option for families who choose to circumcision their son. This is largely because Mohels tend to have an abundance of experience in the practice, and their work in the medical field is completely devoted to the circumcision practice rather than a variety of fields. In addition, Mohels are not only highly experienced in this field, but they also strongly support your decision to circumcise your son. Choosing the right doctor or Mohel to perform your son’s circumcision is not only important in ensuring the success of the operation, but it also gives you and your loved ones peace of mind knowing that your precious newborn is in good hands.
Above we’ve given you five important things to consider when deciding whether to circumcise or not to circumcise your child. We believe that the benefits of circumcision support having the procedure done and that you should speak to your child’s doctor today.
A circumcision is a sacred experience that should be performed and completed with the utmost care. For over 25 years Rabbi Mike Rovinsky has traveled the world as a certified Mohel, performing over 10,000 procedures. His foolproof technique and gentle personality have put thousands of families at ease and have helped to reinforce the parent-child bond. For more information on Easy Circumcision’s holistic method click here, or contact us at 1-800-856-6435.
*Disclaimer-The above information is provided for informational purposes only. As with any medical decision it is important that you discuss this with your loved ones and doctor before making any decision.
References
KidsHealth. (2013). Circumcision. Retrieved from http://kidshealth.org/parent/system/surgical/circumcision.html#
Sears, W. (2015). The circumcision decision. Retrieved from http://www.parenting.com/article/ask-dr-sears-the-circumcision-decision
WebMD. (2014). Circumcising your baby. Retrieved from http://www.webmd.com/baby/guide/what-about-circumcision