The knowledge gap, measured
In 2023, AntiCirc surveyed 542 adults on what actually happens during a newborn circumcision. The result: most people — including parents who chose it — knew almost nothing about the procedure.
What actually happens?
Q: What do you think happens during a hospital newborn circumcision? (check all that apply)
- He is taken to a special room
- He is restrained by strapping him to a board
- His groin is wiped with antiseptic
- A doctor uses a probe to separate his foreskin from the glans
- He cries in pain and thrashes at the restraint
- A doctor uses scissors to cut vertically down his foreskin
- A doctor uses a clamp to hold his penis and foreskin apart
- A doctor uses scissors or a scalpel to cut around his penis and remove the foreskin
- He may or may not be given a local anesthetic
- A nurse may or may not give him a sugar pacifier
- He may pass out from the pain
- He may vomit
- He may suffer internal injuries
- I don't know what happens during a newborn circumcision
Key takeaway
Very few people can correctly identify what actually happens during a newborn circumcision. Misinformation and lack of disclosure remain widespread.
Why it matters
Informed consent starts with truth. Our data shows a critical gap between what happens — and what people are told.
Learn moreScores by demographic
No group reached a passing grade. Women averaged higher (2.7) than men (2.1).
By age
- Age 18–342.9 / 7
- Age 35–542.3 / 7
- Age 55+1.8 / 7
By education
- Graduate degree2.8 / 7
- Bachelor's degree2.5 / 7
- High school degree2.3 / 7
- Less than high school1.5 / 7
Opinions of newborn circumcision
Q: What is your opinion of newborn circumcision?
- It is required15%
- It is up to the parents59%
- It is safe and beneficial31%
- Not sure what circumcision is3%
What the doctor said
Q: Which applies to your circumcision discussion with your doctor or midwife?
- Our doctor/midwife recommended circumcision54%
- Our doctor/midwife did not recommend circumcision15%
- Our doctor/midwife recommended against circumcision2%
- They did not mention the topic29%
Where the pressure came from
Q: From whom, if anyone, did you feel pressure to circumcise your son?
- OB/GYN7%
- Pediatrician13%
- Doula3%
- Nurse-midwife3%
- Our/my religious beliefs5%
- Friends4%
- Family members9%
- Spouse8%
- Not pressured66%
Complications & observations
Almost half (46%) said they knew of no complications — but no surgery is risk-free.
- None that I am aware of86%
- Excessive bleeding5%
- Glans (head of penis) injury3%
- Post-operative pain6%
- Infection3%
- Meatal stenosis (narrowing of urinary opening)1%
- Required second circumcision or corrective surgery1%
of boys had one or more circumcision complications.
of circumcised men in this study are restoring their foreskin.
of circumcised men report complications, including erectile dysfunction.
Keep exploring
Read the survey in respondents' own words.