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Circumcision is one of the oldest and most commonly performed medical procedures in the world. Yet, many people still feel unsure about what it really involves. Parents often wonder if it is safe for their child. Adults may ask if it is painful or necessary. Others are simply trying to understand why circumcision is done at all.
In simple terms, circumcision is the surgical removal of the foreskin, the loose skin that covers the tip of the penis. It may be done for medical reasons, religious beliefs, or personal choice. When performed by a trained doctor, it is considered a safe procedure with a predictable recovery.
This guide explains circumcision clearly and medically. You will learn what it is, how it is done, who performs it, whether it hurts, its benefits and risks, and how to care for the area after surgery.
What Is Circumcision?
Circumcision is a minor surgical procedure in which the foreskin is removed.
The foreskin is a soft fold of skin that normally covers the head of the penis. In uncircumcised males, this skin can move forward and backward. In circumcised males, the head remains uncovered all the time.
Circumcision can be done at different stages of life. Some boys are circumcised shortly after birth. Others undergo the procedure during childhood or adulthood, usually due to a medical condition or personal decision.
Think of the foreskin like the cover of a book. It protects what is inside, but removing the cover does not stop the book from working. In the same way, removing the foreskin does not stop normal urination, sexual function, or fertility.
What Is the Foreskin and What Does It Do?
The foreskin is not harmful by default. It plays a few natural roles in the body.
It protects the sensitive head of the penis from constant friction. It helps keep the area moist. It also contains nerve endings that contribute to sensitivity.
These are often described as the benefits of foreskin.
Many men live their entire lives with a foreskin and never face any problem. For them, circumcision is not medically required.
However, in some cases, the foreskin becomes tight, inflamed, or infected. When this happens repeatedly, doctors may recommend removing it.
So, the foreskin is not good or bad on its own. It is simply a part of the body that can sometimes cause trouble.
Normal Penis Head With and Without Foreskin
A common concern among patients is appearance.
In an uncircumcised male, the foreskin usually covers the head when the penis is relaxed. In a circumcised male, the head remains visible, even in a flaccid circumcised penis.
Both appearances are medically normal.
There is no “correct” look. Bodies differ, just like faces and fingerprints do. Doctors consider both forms healthy as long as there is no pain, infection, or functional problem.
Why Is Circumcision Done?
People often ask, why is circumcision done if the foreskin already has a function.
The reasons fall into three main groups: medical, preventive, and cultural or religious.
Medical reasons
Doctors may advise circumcision when the foreskin causes health problems.
One common condition is phimosis, where the foreskin is too tight to pull back. This can make urination painful and hygiene difficult.
Another is paraphimosis, where the foreskin gets stuck behind the head of the penis and causes swelling. This can become an emergency if blood flow is affected.
Some men suffer from repeated infections of the foreskin or the head. Others experience cracks, scarring, or long-term inflammation. In these cases, circumcision removes the source of the problem.
It is similar to removing a repeatedly infected tooth instead of treating the same infection again and again.
Preventive reasons
Circumcision is also known to lower the risk of certain diseases.
Medical studies have shown that circumcised men have a lower risk of some sexually transmitted infections, including HIV. The risk of penile cancer, although rare, is also lower.
Hygiene becomes easier because there is no skin fold where moisture and bacteria can collect.
These benefits do not mean every man must be circumcised. They simply explain why some doctors recommend it in specific situations.
Cultural and personal reasons
In many parts of the world, circumcision is part of family tradition or cultural identity.
Some parents choose it for their sons because it is common in their community. Some adults choose it for comfort or peace of mind.
There is no single right or wrong choice here. It is a personal decision when there is no medical urgency.
Which Doctor Does Circumcision?
Circumcision should always be performed by a trained medical professional.
The most suitable doctors are urologists. A urologist specializes in urinary and male reproductive health and routinely performs procedures like circumcision.
General surgeons and pediatric surgeons also perform circumcision, especially in children.
If an adult is considering circumcision, consulting a circumcision doctor who is a urologist is usually the best option.
Specialists like Dr. Ashish Kumar Saini, a urologist trained at AIIMS with extensive experience in male urological surgeries, perform circumcision using modern techniques that focus on safety and comfort.
Book Appointment:
https://www.drashishsaini.com/book-online-consultation
Circumcision Procedure: What Actually Happens
The procedure itself is simple and controlled.
First, the doctor examines the patient to make sure there is no active infection or bleeding problem.
Then anesthesia is given. In newborns and children, local anesthesia is usually enough. In adults, local anesthesia or short general anesthesia may be used.
Once the area is numb, the foreskin is carefully removed using sterile instruments. Bleeding is controlled, and the skin edges are closed or dressed.
The entire process usually takes less than an hour.
It is much less dramatic than many people imagine. For the surgical team, it is a routine procedure.
Is Circumcision Painful?
- Another common question is, is circumcision painful.
- During the procedure, pain is controlled by anesthesia. Patients do not feel sharp pain while surgery is being done.
- Afterward, some discomfort is normal.
- Adults may feel soreness, mild burning, or swelling for a few days. Children usually recover even faster.
- Doctors prescribe painkillers and soothing ointments. Cold compresses can also reduce swelling.
- Most people describe the pain as manageable and temporary.
Medical Benefits of Circumcision
Circumcision offers several health benefits.
It reduces the chance of foreskin infections. It lowers the risk of certain sexually transmitted infections. It makes genital hygiene easier. It reduces the risk of penile cancer.
For men who have tight foreskin or repeated infections, circumcision can greatly improve comfort and quality of life.
Benefits of Keeping the Foreskin
- It is equally important to mention the other side.
- Keeping the foreskin provides natural protection to the sensitive head of the penis. It helps maintain moisture and sensitivity.
- Many men feel completely comfortable and healthy with their foreskin.
- This is why circumcision is not automatically recommended for everyone.
- It is a choice that depends on health, beliefs, and personal comfort.
Risks and Possible Complications
Circumcision is considered safe when done by trained doctors. Still, like any surgery, it carries some risks.
These include mild bleeding, infection, swelling, or delayed healing. Serious complications are rare.
Choosing an experienced doctor and following aftercare instructions greatly reduces these risks.
Circumcision Recovery Time
Recovery depends on age.
Babies usually heal within seven to ten days.
Adults take longer. Initial healing happens in two to three weeks, and full healing may take up to four weeks.
During this time, the body forms new skin at the edges, just like it does after a small cut.
Aftercare Tips After Circumcision
Good aftercare helps healing and prevents infection.
The area should be kept clean and dry. Ointments prescribed by the doctor should be applied as directed.
Tight clothing should be avoided. Adults should avoid sexual activity until the doctor confirms complete healing.
If there is increasing redness, pus, fever, or severe pain, medical advice should be sought immediately.
Most patients return to normal daily activities within a few days.
Circumcision in Adults vs Children
Children usually heal faster because their tissues regenerate quickly. They also experience less long-lasting discomfort.
Adults heal well too, but recovery takes longer and requires more care.
Both age groups can safely undergo circumcision when performed by trained professionals.
Female Genital Cutting: An Important Clarification
Male circumcision must not be confused with female genital cutting.
Female genital cutting involves injury to female genital organs, has no medical benefit, and causes serious long-term harm. It is illegal in many countries and considered a human rights violation.
Male circumcision is a recognized medical procedure. The two are completely different.
Frequently Asked Questions About Circumcision
What are the benefits of having circumcision?
Circumcision reduces the risk of foreskin infections, makes genital hygiene easier, and lowers the risk of some sexually transmitted infections. It also helps prevent tight foreskin problems like phimosis.
For what purpose is circumcision done?
Circumcision is done for medical reasons, disease prevention, religious beliefs, or personal preference. Doctors recommend it mainly when the foreskin causes repeated infections or tightness.
What is the reason men get circumcised?
Men choose circumcision to treat medical problems, improve hygiene, lower infection risk, or follow cultural or religious traditions. Some also prefer it for personal comfort.
Why do people get circumcised?
People choose circumcision to prevent health issues, manage existing foreskin problems, or for cultural and religious identity. Parents may also decide for their children.
How painful is circumcision?
The procedure itself is not painful because anesthesia is used. Afterward, mild to moderate discomfort is common for a few days and is controlled with pain medication.
What exactly is done in circumcision?
During circumcision, the doctor removes the foreskin that covers the tip of the penis under sterile conditions. The area is then cleaned and dressed to heal naturally.
What happens if we don't circumcise?
Nothing abnormal happens for most men. Many live healthy lives without circumcision. Problems occur only if the foreskin becomes tight, infected, or difficult to clean.
When do boys need to pull their foreskin back?
Young boys should not forcefully pull the foreskin back. It usually becomes retractable naturally during childhood or early teenage years. Gentle hygiene is enough until then.
What age is best for circumcision?
Medically, circumcision can be done at any age. Healing is faster in newborns, but it is also safe in children and adults when done by trained doctors.
What are the disadvantages of circumcision for men?
Some men experience temporary pain, swelling, or sensitivity changes. Rarely, there can be bleeding or infection. Loss of foreskin also removes its natural protective function.
Is it hard to pee after circumcision?
Most people can urinate normally after circumcision. Mild burning for a day or two may occur, but difficulty passing urine is uncommon.
How painful is circumcision on a scale of 1 to 10?
During the procedure, pain is close to 0 due to anesthesia. After surgery, most adults rate discomfort around 3 to 5 out of 10 for the first few days, then it steadily improves.
Conclusion
Circumcision is a common medical procedure with both benefits and limitations.
For some, it is necessary for health reasons. For others, it is a cultural or personal choice. When done by a trained doctor, it is safe and predictable.
The most important step is not rushing the decision. Understanding the procedure, the recovery, and the long-term effects helps people choose what is right for them or their child.
If you are considering circumcision or have concerns about foreskin problems, speaking with a qualified urologist can provide clarity and reassurance.
Book Appointment:
https://www.drashishsaini.com/book-online-consultation
A calm discussion with a doctor often removes more fear than hours of online searching.
