Circumcision Debate

[steve brock]

Hi all. Our HealthGate topic of the week is a debate about circumcision. Is it a minor operation, (endorsed by the American Academy of Pediatrics) that improves cleanliness and that a baby doesn't feel or an unethical mutilation, with no medical basis, that has long-lasting effects

[carolinapooh, BSN, RN]

Cici is only done out of religious or health reasons here.

There are no more men dying of penile cancer and European men certainly don't smell of urine. Well, not more as any other men, who don't know how to wash themselves.

As for the cath of older men, that is always a hassle, with or without foreskin, isn't?

My British husband, who of course is intact (LOL), would agree completely with you. It seemed like a big deal to me at one time - being American! - but if we ever have a son I don't think he will be, either.

[AtheistRN, ADN, RN]

I have assisted with two circumcisions. My two sons, 17 & 6, are intact. People that request a doc to slice the skin off their son's member are INSANE! The docs that perform this "surgery" are ABHORRENT.

[Irishlass79]

Why do you keep calling a stranger honey?

[Giveheart]

I have assisted with two circumcisions. My two sons, 17 & 6, are intact. People that request a doc to slice the skin off their son's member are INSANE! The docs that perform this "surgery" are ABHORRENT.

It is a normal surgical procedure that has been around since Biblical times. It should actually be MANDATORY. Having the surgery as a baby is a lot safer then having it as an adult. Many boys and men have problems with tightening of the foreskin, and other issues. I have also heard of increase in cancer. Your sons are young now but when they are unable to clean for themselves...I don't know how much nursing experience you have but attending many males in my 14 years, there are many men who do not clean well under there foreskins and the junk trapped under there is gross! It is also very easy to forget to pull down the foreskin after cleaning leading to painful sores and swelling that could cause infection. I also have a feeling who have only sexual experience with men who are uncircumcised. I have spoken to men who have had both!...Grew up uncircumsized then later in life to be circumcized and they much prefer the latter! Also, polls have indicated, for women they much prefer a circumcized member!...looks sooooo much better! You might not see it but when boys share a locker room, it is very apparent what is more attractive and this can also cause insecurity issues.

ETA: My son and his father are uncircumcised. My son ended up with complications at 10 years old because his foreskin would not retract.