If you're expecting or have just given birth to a baby boy, you may be wondering if circumcision is a good idea or not. Some people have an easy time making the decision because their religion commands one way or the other on the issue. Outside of that, here are some pros and cons to weigh when making the decision.
What Is Circumcision?
Infant boys have a hood of skin on their penises when born. This skin is called the "foreskin". In circumcision, that foreskin is removed. Most babies have this procedure done within the first ten days of life. In the United States, between 55-65% of newborn boys are circumcised.
Pros
Those who choose to circumcise cite the following reasons:
To make sure the child has a similar appearance to other men in the family.
The risks from circumcision are low (less then 1%). Complications can include …show more content…
Cons
Those who choose not to circumcise their male babies cite the following reasons:
The procedure is painful.
Circumcision can increase the possibility of the baby developing meatitis, which is when the opening of the penis becomes inflamed.
There is a risk of complications, even if it is low.
What the Doctors Say
According to MedicineNet, doctors have taken a stance of informing parents of the pros and cons that are known and letting parents make the decision whether or not to circumcise. The American Academy of Pediatrics takes the stance that there is no medical reason for routine circumcisions. However, recent studies have shown that circumcision may reduce the transmission of some sexually tranmitted diseases such as HIV. More research has to be conducted before anything conclusive is determined.
Ultimately, the choice of whether or not to circumcise is fully yours. There are just as many reasons to argue for as against the procedure. As with many things in parenting, do what you think is best for your family and your
What Is Circumcision?
Infant boys have a hood of skin on their penises when born. This skin is called the "foreskin". In circumcision, that foreskin is removed. Most babies have this procedure done within the first ten days of life. In the United States, between 55-65% of newborn boys are circumcised.
Pros
Those who choose to circumcise cite the following reasons:
To make sure the child has a similar appearance to other men in the family.
The risks from circumcision are low (less then 1%). Complications can include …show more content…
Cons
Those who choose not to circumcise their male babies cite the following reasons:
The procedure is painful.
Circumcision can increase the possibility of the baby developing meatitis, which is when the opening of the penis becomes inflamed.
There is a risk of complications, even if it is low.
What the Doctors Say
According to MedicineNet, doctors have taken a stance of informing parents of the pros and cons that are known and letting parents make the decision whether or not to circumcise. The American Academy of Pediatrics takes the stance that there is no medical reason for routine circumcisions. However, recent studies have shown that circumcision may reduce the transmission of some sexually tranmitted diseases such as HIV. More research has to be conducted before anything conclusive is determined.
Ultimately, the choice of whether or not to circumcise is fully yours. There are just as many reasons to argue for as against the procedure. As with many things in parenting, do what you think is best for your family and your