Explaining circumcision to mom....

[brentster_us]

Ok, so here is the problem: I'm a nurse and when a new mom asks me what is circumcision, what should i say? I mean, ok, go with me on this. I have researched for myself that the AMA, the pediactric association (whatever it names itslef) and many other references all are acutally against the procedure. Of course, for it if hypospadias or a deformity that can be fixed with the foreskin. But, most baby boys are born normal in that aspect. So, I'm a guy, and I have my own thoughts on the matter. However, my thoughts on the matter are the same as the AMA and such, however, probably a little stronger. So, personally I'm against it all the way with the exception of deformities. So, when everything that I have researched bluntly tells us that it is not a medical necessity but merely a cosmetic surgery what do I say.

I was heard once telling my opinion to a mom. Well, she asked for my opinion. I told her that I would never do that to my child and for many reasons. I explained them. They were facts. WEll, I got in trouble for that because that doctor was all about circumcisions. Of course that doctor was middle eastern. So, I was of course angry about that. I don't know about something, I'm from Chicago but live now in a little town in Texas. Do they still do this procedure much in the bigger cities? Am I just so far in the middle of no where or what?

Thanks

[jadelpn, LPN, EMT-B]

Circumcision is a personal choice a parent makes for their child.

If asked what one's personal decision is regarding same--as a nurse, we need to be right down the middle

"I support a parent's right to choose what they believe to be best for their child"

Any further questions, I would direct to their pediatrician.

[jadelpn, LPN, EMT-B]

Well- given that it *has* been proven to decrease STD transmission, I don't think the issue is quite as simple as merely giving parents "the facts" and it being as clear cut as all that.

Also- the "divine mistake" point only works with those who are religious :wink2:

Personally, we chose NOT to circ our son- but as I do see "the facts" and they are as much for it as against it- a fairly even split- I can certainly see why some would choose to go for it- especially in areas where HIV and other STDs are especially rampant. People see that first hand and see a way to cut that risk for their child- even if it's not a guarantee- most parents view protecting their offspring as a high priority and will do anything they can to do so. Even if it means snipping a bit of skin and taking the risk of that surgical procedure. The point is that each parent has to do their own risk/benefit ratio for their own circumstance- and what they anticipate being issues for their offspring. Their own experiences and biases will play into that, of course- but when "the facts" are neutral with as many pros as cons- it becomes a personal decision and that risk/benefit ratio has to be applied individually.

I am not sure where you are getting this information from, but STD's are rampant with unprotected and/or high risk sex--doesn't matter if a male is circ'ed or not. Let's not get parents all in a tither that their kid is gonna get aids from being uncircumsized. That is just wrong.

[JZ_RN]

My opinion doesn't matter to the parent. Circumcision is a personal choice. It cannot be undone, really (there are some techniques but I doubt it's the same.) The studies do show a lower risk of STD transmission with circumcision. It doesn't mean being circumcised prevents STDs. I explain the procedure itself and the risks it carries with it, explain the need if it's a deformity, explain the pros and cons. Answer any questions they have truthfully and without my own opinion.