It was a quiet Sunday evening, and we were all gathered at my cousin’s place for a family dinner. The aroma of roasted chicken filled the house, and the sound of kids playing in the backyard brought a sense of warmth. I was sitting at the dining table with my cousin Rachel, her husband Sam, and my aunt. The topic, which started as light family chatter, suddenly took a serious turn when Sam asked, “So, Dr. Priya, we’ve been considering circumcision for our baby boy. We don’t know much about it—is it really necessary?”
I could see a mix of curiosity and concern on both Rachel’s and Sam’s faces. It was clear that this decision was weighing on them, and they needed answers. So, I put down my fork, took a deep breath, and began to share what I knew about circumcision.
Who Typically Gets Circumcised?
“Circumcision is often performed for different reasons—sometimes cultural, sometimes religious, and other times due to health concerns,” I began. “In some families, it’s a tradition for boys to be circumcised at birth, either because of religious beliefs or just to be ‘like their father.’ In certain cultures, circumcision has been a routine practice for years, but in others, parents are still quite unsure.”
Rachel nodded, “Yeah, Sam’s family is really pushing for it, but we’re just not sure if it’s the right thing to do.”
Why Some Doctors Recommend Against Routine Circumcision
“I totally understand,” I said, giving them a reassuring smile. “You know, a lot of health organizations around the world, including the Royal Australian College of Physicians, actually do not recommend routine circumcision unless there is a medical need. The foreskin is not just an extra bit of skin—it serves as a protective layer for the head of the penis, keeping it clean and preventing infection. Routine circumcision might carry some unnecessary risks like bleeding or infection, which is why many doctors suggest avoiding it unless absolutely necessary.”
“Then why is it done at all?” Sam asked, frowning slightly.
I replied, “Well, there are some potential medical benefits, such as a reduced risk of sexually transmitted infections and urinary tract infections. But these benefits are usually quite small, and the decision is often more cultural or personal than strictly medical.”
Reasons Doctors May Recommend Circumcision
Sometimes, circumcision is medically indicated, especially if there are issues like:
- Very Tight Foreskin (phimosis): This can make it painful or impossible to retract the foreskin.
- Recurring Infections: When infections happen repeatedly and do not respond well to treatment.
- Difficulty Passing Urine: Sometimes, if the foreskin is too tight, it can cause problems with urination.
“If these issues arise, circumcision might be necessary for medical reasons,” I explained. “But for most healthy boys, the foreskin usually loosens up naturally by age five.”
When Can the Foreskin Be Pulled Back?
Rachel looked worried. “So, when do we know if everything is okay?”
“It’s a great question,” I said, reaching for my glass of water. “The foreskin of all newborn boys is tight, and that’s completely normal. As the child grows, the foreskin becomes looser, and usually, by the age of five, it can be fully retracted. You shouldn’t force it, though. Gently pulling it back during bath time to clean is good, but if it’s not fully retractable by the age of ten, you might want to talk to a doctor.”
Rachel seemed relieved. “Oh, that’s good to know. I always thought it was supposed to happen much sooner.”
Making an Informed Decision: Pros and Cons
Sam interjected, “So, what do we need to consider before making this decision?”
“I would suggest weighing the pros and cons based on your personal beliefs, your child’s health, and your family’s comfort level,” I replied.
Pros and Cons of Circumcision
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Reduced risk of some infections | Possible bleeding and infection risks |
| Potential decrease in some STIs | Pain and discomfort for the infant |
| Ease of hygiene later on | Loss of protective foreskin function |
“Some parents feel that circumcision makes hygiene easier as the child grows older,” I explained. “But at the same time, the foreskin plays a protective role, so it’s not a decision to take lightly.”
Rachel and Sam’s Dilemma
Rachel sighed. “Sam’s parents had him circumcised as a baby, and they think we should do the same for our little one. But it just feels like such a big decision for such a tiny person.”
I nodded. “It is, Rachel, and that’s why it’s really important to be sure about it. There’s no rush—you have time to decide. It’s okay if you feel hesitant. You want what’s best for your baby, and that’s exactly why you’re taking the time to learn about it.”
Sam glanced at Rachel and smiled. “We appreciate you talking us through this, Priya. We’ll definitely take our time and think it over.”
Final Thoughts: Taking It Slow
As we wrapped up the discussion, I reminded them, “If you do decide to go ahead with it, it’s usually best done before the age of one when the baby is not wearing nappies. This reduces the chance of infections. But there’s no rush—you have time to discuss it further, consult your pediatrician, and decide what feels right.”
Rachel smiled, the worry lines on her forehead easing a bit. “Thank you, Priya. This conversation was exactly what we needed. It’s so good to hear all sides without pressure.”
I smiled back. “That’s what family is for. Just remember, whatever choice you make, you’re doing it with love and care for your baby. That’s what truly matters.”
Key Points on Circumcision: What You Need to Know
- Routine circumcision is not recommended unless there’s a medical need.
- The foreskin serves a purpose: it provides protection and helps with cleanliness.
- Circumcision might be necessary in cases of tight foreskin, recurring infections, or difficulty passing urine.
- Take your time—discuss your options with a doctor and consider the cultural and medical aspects.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q1: Is it necessary to clean under my baby’s foreskin?
A1: Not until the foreskin naturally retracts. You can gently pull back as much as possible without forcing it during bath time, but don’t push it if it’s not ready.
Q2: At what age should the foreskin be fully retractable?
A2: By around 5 to 10 years of age, the foreskin should generally be retractable. If it is not by age 10, consider consulting a doctor.
Q3: Does circumcision make hygiene easier in adulthood?
A3: Some believe it does, but good hygiene can be maintained whether circumcised or not. Washing regularly is key.
Q4: Are there risks associated with circumcision?
A4: Yes, there are risks, including bleeding, infection, and pain. It’s important to weigh these risks before deciding.
Q5: Does circumcision prevent sexually transmitted infections?
A5: There is some evidence that suggests circumcision reduces the risk of certain STIs, but it is not a substitute for safe sexual practices.
