Circumcision is the process of surgically removing the "Preputium," known as the foreskin, which covers the glans of the penis. It can be performed during infancy and at different ages; it has been practiced throughout history.
What is Circumcision?
Circumcision is a surgical procedure that involves removing the skin covering the tip of the penis. To expose the glans penis and the end of the urethra, approximately 75% of the penile mucosal tissue and skin layer is surgically excised.
Circumcision is performed in many countries for cultural and religious reasons. It may also be preferred for medical necessities, personal hygiene, or prevention of sexually transmitted diseases.
Why is Circumcision Performed?
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To reduce the risk of urinary tract infections
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To facilitate easier hygiene practices
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To prevent certain skin diseases and conditions that may develop in later years
When performed by an experienced surgeon under hygienic conditions, circumcision results in a healthy healing process.
How is Circumcision Done in Newborns and Infants?
Since circumcision is a special surgical procedure, it should be carried out under sterile conditions. Local anesthesia can be used during the procedure to ensure the baby does not feel pain. However, expert advice should be sought regarding the timing of the circumcision.
Newborn circumcision is a procedure that can be performed when the baby is just a few days old. During this period, the healing time is fast, and the risk of stitches coming undone is low due to the limited mobility of babies.
Circumcision in infants is preferred within the first month. However, if there is no medical necessity, families can wait until their child is a few months old. The timing of circumcision can be planned based on the baby's overall health and the doctor's recommendation.
Some advantages of performing circumcision during infancy include:
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Faster healing
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Lower risk of bleeding
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Minimal psychological trauma
What Are the Benefits of Circumcision?
The benefits of circumcision include hygiene, reduced urinary tract infections, prevention of sexual health problems, and a protective effect against certain types of cancer. Additionally, it is known to have positive psychological and social effects.
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After circumcision, the cleaning and hygiene of the penis become more practical, as dirt accumulation on the skin can be easily cleaned.
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Although urinary tract infections are rare in males, they are more commonly seen in uncircumcised men compared to circumcised ones.
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Uncircumcised men may experience narrowing at the tip of the penis (phimosis), leading to inflammation at the glans due to insufficient retraction of the foreskin.
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Penile cancer, a rare medical condition, is more frequently seen in uncircumcised men.
When Should Circumcision Be Performed?
Circumcision can be performed at any time; however, it is generally not recommended for children between the ages of 6 months and 6 years. Experts considering the development of sexual identity do not advise circumcision during this age range. The most appropriate time is generally considered to be the newborn period. During this time, circumcision can be performed with a low dose of local anesthesia. Wound care is quite simple, and due to the rapid healing process, post-operative complications are rare.
If newborn circumcision is not preferred, it may be more appropriate for parents to wait until after age 6. During this time frame, the child's sexual development will be complete, and parents can provide information about circumcision, reducing the risk of psychological trauma in the child.
What Types of Anesthesia are Used in Circumcision?
The types of anesthesia used during circumcision vary based on the child's age, general health status, and the facilities available at the center where the procedure will be performed. Local anesthesia is the commonly preferred method. In this method, the application of anesthetic around the penis eliminates the sensation of pain during the procedure, while keeping the child conscious. In some cases, local anesthesia may be combined with sedation for a comfortable experience.
Sedation involves administering medication through an intravenous route to induce light sleep, allowing the child to undergo the procedure comfortably without perceiving the environment. In cases where the child has high anxiety levels or additional surgical interventions are required, general anesthesia is preferred.
Under general anesthesia, the patient is fully sedated and feels nothing during the procedure. The decision on the appropriate anesthesia method for circumcision is made by the doctor in consultation with the family, and the procedure is performed under sterile conditions by experienced specialists.
Post-Circumcision Care Considerations
Post-circumcision care plays a decisive role in ensuring a healthy and swift recovery. After the procedure, slight swelling, redness, and occasional mild discomfort in the area are considered normal in the initial days. Depending on the surgical technique used, the wound healing period usually varies between 7–10 days. During this time, it is crucial to protect the wound from infection and maintain hygiene meticulously.
After circumcision, the area must be kept clean and dry. Regular dressing should be performed using sterile gauze as recommended by the doctor. If a circumcision belt is recommended, this product helps prevent friction from diapers or clothes, reducing pain by preventing pressure from tight clothing.
If a baby uses diapers, the area should be checked during every diaper change and kept dry. Paying attention to position the penis upward when fastening the diaper can accelerate the healing process.
Unless advised by a doctor, creams, ointments, or different medications should not be applied to the area. Scabbing at the circumcision line is a natural sign of healing, and the scabs should be allowed to fall off naturally.
Having the child sleep on their back can reduce swelling and sensitivity by preventing pressure on the wound. In the first days, avoiding excessive leg flexion and sudden leg movements is also important. If severe bleeding, foul-smelling discharge, excessive bruising, or fever occur, a doctor should be consulted promptly. Until healing is complete, it is advised to perform regular dressing and not miss follow-up appointments.
Frequently Asked Questions
What should the sleep position be after circumcision?
It is recommended that the baby sleeps on their back following circumcision to prevent pressure on the wound. Lying face down or on the side can increase swelling and pain in the operation area. Additionally, a lightly supportive pillow can be used during sleep to restrict leg movements.
Is using a circumcision belt necessary?
A circumcision belt is a special product that facilitates protection of the wound during the healing process. By preventing friction from diapers or clothing, it ensures hygiene and helps the child move more comfortably. For babies using diapers, using a circumcision belt as recommended by the doctor can be beneficial to reduce the risk of infection.
Does the child feel pain during circumcision?
Pain is eliminated before the circumcision procedure through the application of local anesthesia, sedation, or general anesthesia. In local anesthesia, only the operation area is numbed, while sedation places the child in light sleep. After the procedure, mild pain and burning may occur; these are easily managed with painkillers recommended by the doctor.
When can a bath be taken after circumcision?
Generally, a dry dressing is recommended for 3–4 days after circumcision. If your doctor doesn't specify otherwise, a short bath with lukewarm water can be taken after this period, but it's important not to rub the area and to dry it thoroughly afterward. The detailed bathing plan should always align with the doctor's advice.