Circumcision

What Experts Say

Circumcision refers to the removal of the foreskin, a sleeve of skin that covers the head of the penis.

An ancient tradition mentioned in the Bible, male circumcision is commonly practiced among Muslims and Jews for religious reasons. In the 19th century it became standard in the United States because it was thought to promote hygiene and discourage masturbation. It has since become so routine that your nurse may ask you if your newborn is "ready for his 'circ'," although many American parents choose not to circumcise.

The American Academy of Pediatricians estimates that every year 1.2 million newborn boys are circumcised in the United States. In their...

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Circumcision refers to the removal of the foreskin, a sleeve of skin that covers the head of the penis.

An ancient tradition mentioned in the Bible, male circumcision is commonly practiced among Muslims and Jews for religious reasons. In the 19th century it became standard in the United States because it was thought to promote hygiene and discourage masturbation. It has since become so routine that your nurse may ask you if your newborn is "ready for his 'circ'," although many American parents choose not to circumcise.

The American Academy of Pediatricians estimates that every year 1.2 million newborn boys are circumcised in the United States. In their official policy statement, they report that there are no definitive medical reasons to circumcise, but they leave the choice up to the parents.

Parenting experts like Dr. Benjamin Spock used to recommend routine circumcision. However, in his 40th anniversary edition of "Dr. Spock's Baby and Child Care," Dr. Spock writes, "There is no excuse for the operation -- except as a religious rite... I strongly recommend leaving the foreskin alone."

Parenting expert Penelope Leach agrees, pointing out that the operation is very painful even with anesthesia. "Why spoil your baby's first week with you, and yours with him, when there is no possible good to balance the probable harm?" she writes.

Safety Note

Some bleeding is normal. If there is a lot of bleeding, a foul odor, swelling at the site of circumcision, or if the plastic rim does not fall off within eight days, call your doctor.