Why is this procedure done?
Circumcision is a procedure that removes the foreskin of your sons penis. The foreskin covers the tip of his penis. A circumcision is often done in the first few days after your baby's birth. Circumcision may be done for cultural or religious reasons and can happen outside the hospital. ‚
Circumcision may be done to lower the risk of: ‚
- Urinary tract infection
- Blocking the opening of the penis
- Cancer of the penis
- Sexually-transmitted diseases
Circumcision is not done on all baby boys. The choice to circumcise your son is up to you. ‚
What will the results be?
The foreskin of your babys penis is removed. ‚
What happens before the procedure?
The doctor may do an exam on your baby. Ask your doctor how pain drugs will be given to your baby. ‚
What happens during the procedure?
- Your baby is placed on an exam table or board. The doctor will give a drug to numb your babys penis.
- The penis and foreskin are cleaned. There are a few ways to remove the foreskin. Some doctors may use a scalpel or scissors to remove the foreskin.
- Most often, the foreskin is pushed from the tip of your child's penis and is clipped with a ring-like device.
- If a metal device is used, the foreskin will be cut off and the device will be removed. If a plastic device is used, a stitch will be tied tightly around the foreskin.
- The doctor will put petroleum jelly or an antibiotic ointment on the tip of the penis. The doctor will cover the tip with a clean gauze or bandage.
- The procedure takes 15 to 30 minutes.
What happens after the procedure?
- Your son will be returned to you in the hospital.
- Your son can leave the hospital with you at discharge time.
What drugs may be needed?
The doctor may order drugs to: ‚
- Help with pain
- Prevent infection
What problems could happen?
- Bleeding
- Fever
- Infection
- Swelling or redness around the penis
Where can I learn more?
American Academy of Pediatrics ‚
http://www.healthychildren.org/English/ages-stages/prenatal/decisions-to-make/Pages/Circumcision.aspx ‚
KidsHealth ‚
http://kidshealth.org/parent/system/surgical/circumcision.html# ‚
Consumer Information Use and Disclaimer
This information is not specific medical advice and does not replace information you receive from your health care provider. This is only a brief summary of general information. It does NOT include all information about conditions, illnesses, injuries, tests, procedures, treatments, therapies, discharge instructions or life-style choices that may apply to you. You must talk with your health care provider for complete information about your health and treatment options. This information should not be used to decide whether or not to accept your health care providers advice, instructions or recommendations. Only your health care provider has the knowledge and training to provide advice that is right for you. ‚
Copyright
Copyright ‚ © 2015 Clinical Drug Information, LLC and Lexi-Comp, Inc. ‚