Medical Questions » Babies Questions » Question No. 115
| Question: | I am expecting my fourth child soon, and from a scan I know that it will be a boy. My first son was circumcised, but I am finding it difficult to contact a doctor who will circumcise my next son. One said he would do it under a general anaesthetic at three months, the other at twelve months. I want my sons to look the same. What do you suggest? |
| Answer: | ' There is no medical indication for undertaking routine circumcision of newborn male infants, and the hazards of the operation at this age outweigh any possible advantage.'
This quote is from the National Health and Medical Research Council. I have not carried out a circumcision in my general practice for many years, and public hospitals in some states now ban the procedure.
Circumcision was traditionally carried out a week after birth. While the infant was held securely by an assistant, the foreskin was clamped firmly and cut away. No anaesthetic was used. I do not believe there is any reason for this barbaric practice to be continued in the twenty-first century.
There are a small number of boys and men who will need a circumcision, but this can be performed when required, and under a general anaesthetic in hospital.
The fact that an elder brother or father had been circumcised used to influence my decision in this matter, but no more. Very rarely do brothers actually compare themselves, but if they do, the uncircumcised one can be proud that he has more than his brother.
In later life, the uncircumcised male will find sex more stimulating, as the foreskin is the most sexually sensitive area of the penis.
80% of boys are now not being circumcised in Austtalia, and the percentage being so mutilated is dropping each year. I suggest your son joins the majority.
|
|
|
