Circumcision

What is circumcision?

Circumcision is a procedure performed to remove the foreskin of a male’s penis. The foreskin is a piece of skin that naturally covers the tip of the penis. In most cases, pediatricians perform circumcisions on newborns; however, older children or adult males can have a circumcision as well.

Circumcision is done for cosmetic purposes or as part of Jewish religious rites on the eighth day after birth. When circumcision is for cosmetic purposes, your pediatrician performs the procedure in the hospital or in the office within two to three days after birth.

Circumcision is not a medically necessary procedure and is something that each parent should discuss and decide before their son’s birth. Your pediatrician can help you understand the risks and benefits involved and help you make an informed decision.

What are the benefits of circumcision?

Circumcision is a part of ancient religious rites for the Jewish faith. For others, it may hold benefits that include:

• Decreased risk of urinary tract infections
• Reduced risk for some male cancers
• Reduced risk for sexually transmitted disease
• Reduced risk for cervical cancer for a female sexual partner
• Increased ability to keep the penis clean and free of infection

Being circumcised helps to prevent conditions such as inflammation or inability to retract or replace the foreskin.

Why is a certified mohel important for Jewish circumcision?

A mohel is certified by the Jewish faith to perform circumcision as part of a ceremony called the bris, which takes place on the eighth day after birth. This ceremony, also called the brit milah, incorporates prayers, rituals, and traditions to welcome and dedicate a male child.

Dr. Shoham is certified to perform this ceremony, so he can safely and effectively perform the circumcision procedure, as well as honor the tradition of the ceremony.

What does circumcision procedure entail?

Your pediatrician may use different methods, depending on whether or not the circumcision is for religious reasons. Most often, the foreskin is pulled up over the tip of the penis, and a specialized clamp device is applied to remove the foreskin.

If circumcision is part of a bris ceremony, the method may be slightly different and utilize a special penile shield, instead of a clamp. This method uses a scalpel to quickly remove the foreskin.

You’ll receive specific instructions about how to care for your son’s circumcision site, which will heal completely within 1-2 weeks.

For a pre-birth consultation to discuss your questions and desires for circumcision, call or book an appointment with Shoham Medical.