Circumcision
Topic Overview
What is circumcision?
Male circumcision (SAY...) is a voluntary surgery to remove the fold of skin, or foreskin, that covers and protects the rounded tip of the penis. This surgery is most commonly done on newborns about 24 hours old. See an illustration of the penis before and after circumcision
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If your baby is born early (premature) or has certain medical conditions, he may be circumcised when he is older. Circumcision may also be done in older boys and men to treat problems with the foreskin of the penis like phimosis and paraphimosis). It may also be done to reduce infection and and swelling of the tip of the penis (balanitis).
This topic focuses on the circumcision of newborns.
In 1970, about half of males in Canada had been circumcised. Since then, the number has greatly decreased mostly because circumcision is not covered by provincial health plans.1
Who performs circumcisions?
Circumcisions usually are done by a pediatrician, obstetrician, family doctor, surgeon, or urologist. However, ritual circumcision may be done by others trained in the procedure, such as mohels of the Jewish faith.
Should I have my son circumcised?
Circumcision is not medically necessary. The Canadian Paediatric Society (CPS) does not recommend circumcision as a routine procedure for newborn males. When making this policy, the CPS considered the possible health benefits of circumcision, such as a lower risk for urinary tract infections (UTIs) in the first year of life. The CPS also considered the risks and costs of the procedure when making this policy.1
When you make this decision, it may help you to think about your personal and cultural preferences. For example, you may want to consider your family and religious traditions while you weigh the benefits and risks of the surgery. It is your decision whether to have your son circumcised. In Canada, circumcision is not an insured service.
What problems can develop if my son is circumcised?
Problems from circumcision are rare. If they occur, they are usually minor. The most common circumcision problems are pain, bleeding, infection of the circumcision site and at the opening of the urethra, and irritation of the exposed tip of the penis. Long-term problems are even rarer but can include damage to the opening of the urethra, excessive bleeding that requires stitches, severe infection, or scarring and other problems from surgical error.
Frequently Asked Questions
Learning about circumcision:
How is it done?
Ongoing concerns:
Care after circumcision:
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| Author: | Amy Fackler, MA Carrie Henley | Last Updated: June 2, 2006 |
| Medical Review: | Adam Husney, MD - Family Medicine Michael J. Sexton, MD - Pediatrics Peter Anderson, MD, FRCS(C) - Pediatric Urology | |
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