Does your son need circumcision? Let's talk about it.

Whether or not to perform a 'ritual' for your new addition to the family is a big question for many parents. Some do it for religious reasons, others for health reasons. What exactly is this ritual? Is it necessary to do it? What are the pros and cons of it? Don't worry, we'll talk about everything simply and clearly.

Simply put, what is circumcision?

Simply put, circumcision is the surgical removal of the foreskin, the part of the skin that covers the head (glans) of a boy's penis. This is usually done on newborn boys, within the first week of their birth. However, adults can also have this surgery, but it is less common.

Is fasting really good for health?

It's hard to give a straight "yes" or "no" answer to this. Because, while there are medical benefits to the practice , there are also some risks. World-renowned medical associations, such as the American Academy of Pediatrics, say that the benefits outweigh the risks .

How common is this in the world?

Circumcision is arguably the most common surgical procedure performed on men in the world. For example, more than 70% of men in the United States have undergone circumcision. It is also very common in Middle Eastern countries and South Korea. However, it is not so common in Europe, other Asian countries, and South America. In addition, it is also performed as a religious ritual in the Jewish and Muslim religions.

Let's learn about how the surgery is performed.

How do you prepare before surgery?

If a newborn baby:

In a hospital, the first thing doctors will do is give your baby a numbing cream or a small injection. They may also recommend a pain reliever like acetaminophen.

If you are an older child or adult:

The doctor will review your or your child's complete health history. Be sure to tell your doctor about any medications you are taking, whether prescribed by a doctor, over-the-counter (OTC), vitamins, or even herbal remedies. Blood thinners/anticoagulants and some nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) can increase the risk of bleeding during surgery. Also, be sure to tell your doctor about any allergies you may have.

Who will perform this surgery?

In a hospital, this surgery is usually performed by specialists such as:

• Obstetrician: A doctor who cares for the mother and baby during pregnancy and childbirth.
• Pediatrician: A doctor who specializes in the diseases of infants and children.
• Urologist: A doctor who specializes in diseases and surgeries related to this field.

What happens during surgery?

After the numbing medication has worked, the doctor will follow these steps:

1. Carefully lay the baby on its back.

2. Stop moving your limbs during surgery, and gently control them.

3. Clean the penis and the surrounding area thoroughly.

4. Carefully separate the foreskin from the head of the penis.

5. The foreskin is removed using a special surgical knife (scalpel).

Newborns usually do not need stitches. However, for older children and adults, a few dissolvable stitches or an electrical cauterization of the wound surface may be used to stop the bleeding and help the wound heal more quickly.

Let's weigh the benefits and risks together.

As with any medical procedure, there are both benefits and risks involved in the procedure. Let's take a closer look at both.

How to take care of the baby after the ritual?

This is the most important part. Your doctor will advise you on this, but in general, keep these things in mind.

• Until the wound heals, gently wash the area with mild soap and lukewarm water . For the first two or three days, it is best to wash your baby with a sponge or cloth rather than bathing him.
• After each diaper change, apply a lubricant such as Vaseline® or Aquaphor® to the tip of the penis. If you get any dirt or feces on it, clean it carefully.
• As the wound heals, the penis may appear slightly red and swollen . You may also develop a yellow film over the wound. This is normal, so don't worry.
• Only give painkillers prescribed by the doctor.
• Avoid toys (e.g. rocking horses, bicycles) or positions that may cause pain or discomfort to the baby. When holding the baby, do not hold it with your arms or legs on either side.
• Babies usually recover within 10 days. Adults can take 2-3 weeks or even up to 6 weeks.

When to see a doctor immediately

If you have any of the following symptoms, see a doctor immediately or go to a hospital's Emergency Department (ETU).

• If you have a fever with a body temperature above 38 Celsius (100 Fahrenheit).
• If the bleeding continues unstoppably.
• If there is pus-like discharge around the wound and a bad odor is coming out.
• If the baby has not urinated 12 hours after surgery.
• If you feel cold and shiver (chills).

What if you decide not to have the custom?

That's completely normal. Many children in the world don't do this, and they live healthy lives. If you decide to do so, ask your doctor about the correct way to keep your child's penis and foreskin clean. During the first few years of a child's life, the foreskin is attached to the penis. Never try to force it back. When your child is a little older, teach him how to clean his body on his own.

Custom, Circumcision, Baby Boy, Surgery, Foreskin, Health Benefits, Risks