Circumcision: To Cut or Not to Cut

The Basics:
Circumcision is a procedure performed on many males, typically to the newborn, where the foreskin is removed from the head of the penis. This is an elective procedure, and no doctor or midwife should try to convince you either way; but he or she should communicate the facts and statistics to you. Circumcision has been practiced since not too long after Creation, and was originally meant as a sign of commitment to the Lord. Now there are many ways to have boys circumcised, for plausible health benefits. Here are the two sides of the argument.

FOR circumcision:
Though many, such as Jews, circumcise for Biblical reasons, there are studies that show of the many health benefits as well. Such as the concept that a circumcised male cannot trap germs underneath his foreskin (since it doesn't exist), so he as well as his future mate are less likely to contract infectious diseases and cancers. Statistics show that both males and females are more likely to contract one of these when the male is uncircumcised.

AGAINST circumcision:
There is also the argument that, "if it ain't broke, don't fix it". Meaning that the male should be fine with an intact foreskin and there is no reason for puttin him in any pain. They also point out that most care providers will tell parents to begin pulling back the foreskin soon after birth in order to clean it. This actually opens a wound and provides a safe place for unwanted germs to grow. They say it is better not to pull the foreskin back until it moves on its own, at about one year of age.

The Procedure:
Usually the procedure is carried out 48-72 hours after a baby boy's birth. It is done at this point in time becuase it is most convenient for the doctor and mom before she leaves the hospital. However, this means that the baby will need a supplement of Vitamin K, which helps to clot the blood, since it doesn't come in on its own at sufficient levels until the 8th day after birth. So it would be a good idea to speak to your health care provider about coming back a week later to have the circumcision performed. That way he will already have the Vitamin K that he needs and won't need as many shots after birth.

For a newborn, the procedure is very simple and usually takes but a matter of 10 or 15 minutes to complete. The baby is strapped to the table (a big reason why he cries so much), usually given a local anesthetic, and the doctor uses one of four general types of circumcisions to complete the job: Dorsal Slit, Glands Shield, Gomco Clamp and Excision.

After the procedure is complete, the glans, which may bleed a little, is covered in Vaseline and wrapped in gauze. The Vaseline helps to protect the cut from infection and from being stuck to the diaper. Circumcision can be a painful thing (for baby and parents), so they both will need lots of hugs and reassurance that they are providing what they know is best for their baby.

When the baby has gone home, mom and dad's job is to keep the glans covered in Vaseline until the cut heals and to give lots of love to their newborn son. Healing usually takes 7-10 days.

Overview:
Health benefits, religious beliefs, concerns about pain, personal opinion and plans for their son's future are all issues that come into play when making a decision about whether or not to have him circumcised. It is a big decision, so think it over, pray and talk to other people about what they did. Also, discuss it with your care provider and research the procedure.

You may have already formed an opinion, but try reading on the issue. You may learn surprising facts supporting and / or opposing your decision that could have an effect on your son's reproductive life.