Think about circumcision early, before your baby is born
Any decision that has lifelong consequences for your child deserves thoughtful consideration. Too many parents only consider circumcision once a doctor or nurse brings up the subject in the hospital. It's great that you are doing your research now.
Circumcision is not medically necessary
The American Academy of Pediatrics has stated clearly that the health benefits of newborn circumcision are not great enough to recommend it. [32]
Circumcision is not reversible
Circumcision cannot be undone once performed. Many men are angry their parents had them circumcised. Allowing your son the option to choose when older is a loving decision.
Times are changing
There is a big debate about circumcising children, growing in intensity as more people question permanently removing a natural body part from a baby. Search "circumcision regret" to read what other parents are saying.
You are responsible
If you choose circumcision surgery, you are responsible for how his penis looks, works, and feels for his entire life. You cannot foresee the sexual or emotional harm he might experience later.
Circumcision has risks
Risks include: infection, excessive bleeding, "degloving," meatal stenosis, damage to the glans, and—in rare cases—death. Is it worth subjecting your son to these risks for an operation with no medical necessity? [33]
What to Expect from Your Doctor
Doctors want to give their patients the best possible care; they trust their medical school education. But because newborn circumcision has been a part of American medicine for generations, doctors—just like other Americans—are influenced by social norms and can have trouble accepting new ideas.
Doctors have good intentions
Doctors want to give the best possible care; they trust their medical school education. But because newborn circumcision has been part of American medicine for 75 years, doctors are influenced by social norms and can have trouble accepting new ideas.
Unconscious bias affects us all
If your doctor is male and American, he is likely circumcised and may not want to question whether his own circumcision was good for him. Female doctors may have similar bias through circumcised family members and partners.
Find a foreskin-friendly pediatrician
Many doctors—even some who perform circumcisions—have chosen to keep their own sons intact. Ask your pediatrician if he is "foreskin-friendly" and knowledgeable about the intact penis.
Many doctors are unfamiliar with the alternative
Many U.S. doctors see circumcision as the default choice and have never questioned it. They often assume parents will want circumcision and cannot offer good information about foreskin function or intact penis care.
Many doctors are unaware of growing complaints
Men are beginning to speak out about circumcision's negative impact, but many doctors who have performed circumcisions for years find it difficult to acknowledge these complaints. Times are changing.
Follow your instincts
Your child's well-being is most important. Regardless of your doctor's opinion, circumcision does not need to be done. It is OK to say no and allow him to decide when old enough.
How to Talk to Your Doctor
Explain your decision
If you decide to keep your son intact, tell your doctor you've done your research. State this during a prenatal visit, and note "NO CIRCUMCISION" on any forms you sign or furnish to the hospital.
You can always wait
If struggling with the decision, take the baby home and decide later. Circumcision can be performed at any point in life, including adulthood. But once done, it cannot be undone.
How to Talk to Friends and Family
Explaining to relatives
If relatives try to convince you to circumcise, share the information that helped you decide. Tell them you appreciate their concern, but this is your decision, and you want them to welcome your baby regardless of his private parts.
Reassuring religious parents
If parents are conservative or religious, convey that times are changing: many parents from traditionally circumcising cultures now welcome children with non-cutting ceremonies. Children can still be faithful members of their religion.
How to Clean and Care for Your Baby Boy
Care is easier with an intact foreskin
In a baby, the foreskin is attached to the glans with connective tissue. Unlike a circumcised penis, an intact penis requires no special care. "Just clean what's seen"—plain warm water. That's it!
If you do have your son's foreskin removed
You must change dressings at every diaper change. Apply petroleum jelly, monitor for bleeding and infection, and watch for adhesions. Use cloth diapers so excessive bleeding is seen; a bloodspot larger than a quarter is cause for concern. [35]
Never forcibly retract the foreskin
Forcibly pulling back his foreskin damages his penis. Never allow anyone, even a doctor, to do this. It is painful and can lead to bleeding, infections and adhesions. Your son should be the first and only person to retract his foreskin. [34]
Important Warning
Your child's foreskin should never be forcibly retracted. Stay with your son during all medical examinations, and state that his foreskin should not be retracted. Your son should be the first and only person to retract his foreskin.
How to Talk to Your Child
If you left him intact, explain why
When he asks why some boys look different, explain you chose to protect him by leaving his body as nature made it. If teased, tell him nobody should be made fun of for how they look. Share age-appropriate information as he grows.
If you regret circumcising, explain and apologize
Many parents who allowed circumcision have come to regret it. An age-appropriate explanation: "I thought it was the right thing for you. I know now that wasn't the case. I am sorry."
Get Additional Information, Help, and Support
Social media and blogs are a great place to interact with parents who have struggled with the same questions as you. Connect with others who understand what you're going through.
Parents Are Asking
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