Circumcision is the surgical removal of the foreskin from the penis, which can be performed from birth through adulthood. Today, we will address these questions and explore circumcision in children.

Circumcision can help with hygiene or be performed in accordance with religious or cultural practices. Currently, the costs associated with circumcision vary, allowing for options that suit individual preferences and needs. There are also automated circumcision devices available that can help reduce both the duration of the surgery and the recovery time.

What is Circumcision? Where Did It Originate?

Circumcision is the surgical removal of the foreskin from the penis, which helps to maintain hygiene and reduce the accumulation of bacteria. Evidence of circumcision dates back to around 2000 BC, as mentioned in the Bible, where the practice of modifying the penis, known as “circumcision,” of male infants was discussed.

This practice was seen as a covenant with the gods in ancient Egyptian beliefs. It is believed that the Egyptians and Ethiopians were among the first groups of men to undergo this surgical modification. There is also speculation that female genital cutting may have occurred first, creating an impetus for men to follow suit, a practice that continues to this day.

Moreover, circumcision has become a cultural tradition for certain religions that have carried on through the generations. Today, there are various technologies and techniques for performing circumcision, resulting in less pain for those undergoing the procedure and reducing post-surgical complications.

Benefits of Circumcision in Children

Circumcision is an important topic for parents who are expecting a baby boy to understand. First, it’s essential to know that the foreskin serves to protect the penis from friction and trauma. Typically, in newborns, the foreskin may not retract fully, usually becoming more manageable between the ages of 3 to 7.

Before proceeding with circumcision, parents should gather information about the procedure and observe whether their child has any issues with their genital area. The main indications or reasons for circumcision include:

• Easier Hygiene: Some parents may worry that their child will not be able to maintain proper hygiene in the genital area, leading to potential infections.
• Non-Retractable Foreskin: If the foreskin does not retract fully (True Phimosis), it can make cleaning difficult.
• Pain or Inflammation: Children may experience pain or inflammation in the penis due to excessive tightness of the foreskin.
• Urinary Tract Infections: Presence of infections in the urinary tract or inflammation.
• Accumulation of Debris: Known as smegma, this can accumulate under the foreskin.
• Inflammation or Infection of the Foreskin: Indicating possible health issues.
• Difficulty Urinating: Signs of straining or swelling of the penis during urination.
• Reduced Risk of Penile Cancer: Circumcision can lower the risk of developing cancer in the penile area.
• Religious Practices: Some families choose circumcision to adhere to religious beliefs.

Optimal Age for Circumcision in Children

• Newborn Stage: In newborns, the procedure is usually performed under local anesthesia. Circumcision at this stage allows for quick healing of the wound. Most families who opt for circumcision at this age do so due to religious or cultural beliefs. However, the baby must be healthy and not born prematurely.
• Ages 2-6 Years: Circumcision may be performed if issues arise in the genital area, such as non-retractable foreskin (Phimosis) or inflammation (Balanoposthitis). For children older than 2 months, general anesthesia may be used instead of local anesthesia. Nowadays, some procedures use automatic bloodless circumcision devices, making the process more efficient and comfortable.

How to Prepare Before Circumcision

• Consult a Doctor: Before undergoing the procedure, it is important to discuss with a physician to understand the advantages and disadvantages of circumcision. Additionally, inquire about other treatment options and their respective pros and cons to aid in your decision-making.
• Fasting: Children scheduled for circumcision under general anesthesia need to refrain from eating and drinking for at least 6 to 8 hours beforehand.
• Hygiene: Before the circumcision procedure, the child should take a bath to clean their body and avoid applying any powders or products around the genital area.

Summary: Can Children Be Circumcised?

As we can see, circumcision can be performed on children starting from newborns, provided they are healthy and not born prematurely. It can also be done for children between the ages of 2 to 6 years if parents observe any abnormalities as mentioned earlier.

Parents should understand the procedure and consult a doctor before proceeding with treatment, making sure to ask about the benefits and risks involved. If you are interested in circumcision at Dr. Beer’s clinic, you can inquire at the nearest clinic or contact them via Line OA for more information.

MD. Suebphong Angchoun

See Full Bio