‘Best age for circumcision’ is a widespread concern around people. While the answers may vary from individual to individual, the fact is that there is no ‘best’ or ‘right’ age for circumcision. To know more about circumcision and when to undergo the procedure and why, speak to our expert urologist. Book a FREE consultation with our doctor.
‘Best age for circumcision’ is a widespread concern around people. While the answers ... Read More
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Circumcision is the surgical procedure to remove the penile foreskin, the skin that covers the tip of the penis. Circumcision, also known as ‘foreskin removal surgery’ is a common practice among men from Judaism and Islam communities. Reasons for circumcision encompass religious, medical, cultural, and personal reasons.
According to the National Family Health Survey (NFHS-4), the overall circumcision rate in India is 16%.
Circumcision may be recommended to address certain conditions such as phimosis, paraphimosis, and recurring infections, or to reduce the risk of sexually transmitted infections (STIs) including HIV.
Circumcision is typically performed on newborn males, but it can also be carried out later in life. A healthcare professional usually performs the procedure under sterile conditions using local anesthesia.
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The term ‘best age for circumcision’ does not hold true, as there is no one best fit for all. Circumcision is a very personal decision and one particular age does not fit for all.
The optimal age for circumcision can vary depending on individual circumstances and the primary reason for the circumcision, whether religious, cultural, or personal.
For newborns, circumcision is often performed within the first few days or weeks of life, as it tends to be simpler and carries lower risks at this age. In the Islamic community, most people prefer to undergo circumcision at the age of 7 years, although some Muslims are circumcised as early as the seventh day after birth and as late as puberty.
Some families may choose to delay circumcision until later childhood or adolescence for personal or cultural reasons. Boys and adults who suffer from phimosis, paraphimosis, and balanitis can choose to undergo circumcision to treat penile health problem at any age as per convenience or requirement; ideally, the sooner, the better.
Common factors that families and doctors consider when determining the appropriate age for circumcision include the individual’s health status, pain tolerance, potential benefits and risks associated with the procedure, cultural or religious preferences, and the availability of skilled healthcare providers.
Here’s a breakdown of different age groups in men for circumcision.
Newborn stage (within the first few days) – This is the most common age for circumcision. The procedure is believed to be less stressful for the baby at this stage.
Later in infancy (up to a few months) – Some parents opt to postpone circumcision until late infancy, allowing the baby time to recover from childbirth and establish a routine.
Childhood or adulthood – While less common, some families or individuals choose to undergo the procedure later in life. Reasons for circumcision at this age are mostly concerning health.
Let’s compare the positive and negative aspects of undergoing circumcision at the above-mentioned ages.
AGE | PROS | CONS |
Newborn | Quick healing, less anesthesia needed, lower risk of complications | Cutting the foreskin too short, Excessive bleeding |
Later in Infancy | Allows the parents more time for an informed decision | Requires anesthesia, potentially higher risk of complications, longer healing time |
Adulthood | Time to make an informed decision, May be easier to manage pain. | Requires general anesthesia, Longer recovery time, Potentially more complex procedure. |
There are three primary methods for foreskin removal surgery:
During open circumcision, the urologist creates a surgical incision around the foreskin’s circumference to expose the glans penis.
The excess foreskin is then trimmed and the remaining edges are stitched together. This procedure is commonly used for medical reasons like phimosis, hygiene improvement, or cultural/religious practices and is typically done under general anesthesia.
Laser circumcision involves using a laser device to make precise incisions around the foreskin. This method minimizes bleeding and reduces the risk of infection.
Laser energy vaporizes tissue, resulting in less post-operative pain and quicker healing. It’s chosen by some patients for its perceived benefits in terms of reduced discomfort and improved cosmetic results.
Stapler circumcision utilizes a specialized surgical stapler to remove excess foreskin and close the remaining edges.
The stapler cuts and seals the tissue simultaneously, reducing bleeding and promoting faster healing. This procedure, performed under local or general anesthesia, is known for its efficiency and shorter operative time compared to traditional methods. However, it may carry a higher risk of complications like infection or staple migration.
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Post-circumcision, it is crucial to keep the surgical site as clean as possible. You can gently clean the area with warm water or use cotton dipped in water. You can use mild soaps to clean the area and refrain from using any harsh chemical soaps. Your urologist may recommend sponge baths until the area is healed.
Apply petroleum jelly to the dressing on the incision. Even after the dressing is removed, continue to apply dabs of petroleum jelly on the tip of the penis or the front of the diaper until the wound heals.
In case of stapler circumcision, allow the ring to fall off on its own. This usually takes 5 to 10 days.
It usually takes between 7 to 10 days for a circumcised penis to heal. Initially, the tip of the penis may appear slightly swollen and red. There might be a slight yellow discharge or crust for a couple of days after circumcision. This is part of the normal healing process.
Although recovery after circumcision surgery is pretty simple and safe, you should call your doctor in case you notice any of the following complications:
The best doctor to consult for circumcision is a urologist. If you are suffering from any urological or male genital problem, you can consult a urologist or a general surgeon at Pristyn Care for effective treatment.
No, circumcision is not mandatory for all men. Circumcision is a personal choice influenced by cultural, religious, and medical factors. While some religions or cultures may advocate for circumcision, it is not universally required or recommended by medical authorities.
But diseases such as phimosis, paraphimosis, or balanitis that do not respond to medications and other treatment approaches, might mandate circumcision surgery.
Circumcision should not be done if the baby is premature, sick, or unstable. Circumcision might also not be a feasible treatment if the boy or the man has a family history of bleeding problems.
Here are some tips for caring for a circumcised infant:
It usually takes 7-10 days for an infant’s penis to heal after a circumcision. During this time, it is important to follow the post-surgery tips shared by the doctor.
Circumcision is generally not painful for babies. But, they may still experience discomfort and stress, along with alterations in heart rate, blood pressure, and cortisol levels.
Behavioral changes, such as increased crying, altered sleep patterns, and temporary shifts in mother-child interactions are common after circumcision but typically resolve within 24 hours.
Adult circumcision may reduce the risk of urinary tract infections, and foreskin-related diseases such as phimosis, paraphimosis, and balanitis.
Circumcision can also lower the chances of sexually transmitted infections such as HIV, and penile cancer. However, it’s important to note that circumcision is not a guaranteed prevention method and should be considered alongside other preventive measures and safe practices.
Yes, a man can undergo circumcision at the age of 30 or at any other age. It is important for individuals considering circumcision to consult with a healthcare professional to discuss the procedure’s risks, benefits, and potential outcomes.
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