NJ Family / August 2011 / Circumcision: The Pros and Cons to Help Make This Decision

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Circumcision: The Pros and Cons to Help Make This Decision

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As parents, whether or not to have your son circumcised is a decision you’ll be asked to make, and one that can be controversial. Here are some arguments from both sides of the debate:

What Is It?

• Circumcision is the removal of the foreskin—the double layer of skin and mucous membrane covering the tip of the penis.

Do It

• During the first year, urinary tract infections occur less frequently in boys who are circumcised
• Circumcision is more complicated and riskier when performed later on older boys and men
• The tradition of circumcision is an integral part of some religions
• Some studies have shown circumcision reduces the risk of HIV in heterosexual males
• Circumcision may decrease the incidence of herpes and human papillomavirus (HPV)
• Removal of the foreskin may lower the risk of cervical cancer in female partners
• Penile infections and irritations are less common in circumcised males

Don’t Do It

• No major medical group in the U.S. advocates routine circumcision for newborns
• Circumcision may decrease sensitivity in the penis and reduce sexual pleasure
• There is pain associated with newborn circumcision when no anesthetic is used
• Leaving the foreskin intact helps protect the penis from chafing and irritation
• Some believe it’s unethical for parents to make this decision for their child
• Like any surgery, circumcision is associated with some risks, including instances of bleeding and infection
• Regular bathing and good hygiene habits are all that’s required to prevent infection in an uncircumcised male

Sources: Kids Health; medicinenet.com; Circumcision Resourse Center; Healthy Children.