Infant Circumcision: Health Benefits Parents Need to Know

Circumcision is a minor surgical procedure that removes the foreskin (prepuce) covering the head of the penis. Circumcision is performed for various reasons, such as religion, culture, hygiene, and health. In the medical world, circumcision is often associated with several short- and long-term health benefits.

 

1. Health Benefits of Infant Circumcision

a. Reduced Risk of Urinary Tract Infection (UTI)

Uncircumcised baby boys have a 10 times higher risk of developing urinary tract infections than circumcised babies. UTIs in infants can cause symptoms such as fever, painful urination, and in severe cases can lead to kidney damage.

b. Preventing Foreskin Disease

Some conditions that often occur in uncircumcised men are:

- Phimosis: The foreskin cannot be pulled back so that it covers the head of the penis.

- Parafimosis: The foreskin that is pulled back cannot be returned to its original position, causing swelling and pain.

c. Easier Penis Hygiene

Without the foreskin, penis hygiene is easier to maintain. A poorly cleaned foreskin can lead to a buildup of smegma (white feces) that harbors bacteria and causes irritation.

 

d. Reduced Risk of Sexually Transmitted Diseases

Research shows that circumcised men have a lower risk of developing sexually transmitted diseases such as:

- HIV/AIDS

- Genital herpes

- Human Papillomavirus (HPV)

- Syphilis

This reduced risk is attributed to better penile hygiene and the loss of the foreskin which can harbor infections.

 

e. Reduced Risk of Penile Cancer

Although rare, penile cancer is more common in uncircumcised men. Circumcision also helps reduce the risk of cervical cancer in female partners due to the decreased spread of HPV.

 

2. Risks of Infant Circumcision

Although circumcision is generally safe, like any medical procedure, it has some minor risks:

- Bleeding - Usually mild and controllable.

- Infection - If not performed under sterile conditions or if wound care is not optimal.

- Penis Tip Irritation - Usually temporary.

The risk of complications can be minimized if the circumcision is performed by experienced medical personnel and under sterile conditions.

 

3. When is the Right Time for Circumcision?

Infant circumcision is usually performed within the first 7-14 days after birth. Some of the reasons why infant circumcision is more advisable than at an older age are:

- The procedure is simpler and faster.

- Infants recover faster because the healing tissues are still optimized.

- The risk of complications is lower.

- Infants experience less pain than older children.

However, circumcision may be postponed if the baby has certain medical conditions, such as:

- Prematurity (babies born prematurely).

- Blood clotting disorders (hemophilia).

- Penile deformity (hypospadias or epispadias).

 

After the infant circumcision procedure is completed, the mother can take the baby home immediately. The doctor will provide a regular control schedule to closely monitor your little one's recovery process. Generally, infant circumcision healing takes about 7 to 10 days, which is faster compared to children and adults who usually take up to 3 weeks.

 

Moms need to pay close attention to the scar, as the baby may experience pain and swelling in the area of the head of the penis. Also, the area may appear bruised and red. However, there is no need to worry excessively, as this condition is normal. Although it may seem uncomfortable, the circumcision procedure has a significant impact on the baby's future survival. Thus, infant circumcision is worth considering.

 

Reference:

Hermina Hospitals.  Accessed on 2024. When should male circumcision be performed?

Halodoc. Accessed on 2024. Mothers, Recognize the 5 Benefits and Risks of Circumcision in Infants.