Circumcision

What is circumcision?

A circumcision is a minor surgical procedure to remove the foreskin that covers the head of your baby’s penis.

Your Artemis OB/GYN doctor can perform the procedure on infant males soon after birth before discharge if your pediatrician isn’t available.

Why should I consider circumcision for my baby?

While circumcision is an elective procedure and not required for good health, you may wish to consider the procedure for your son because of religious or cultural reasons.

Many parents also elect to have their child circumcised for hygiene reasons. Boys that undergo circumcision are at reduced risk for developing urinary tract infections and may also be less likely to get penile cancer.

Circumcised penises are generally easier to clean to prevent frequent complications, like infection, inflammation, and irritation.

If you’re unsure whether or not to move forward with circumcision, you can discuss your concerns with your doctor at Artemis OB/GYN. They can provide insight to help you make the most informed decision.

What happens during a circumcision?

To keep your baby comfortable during the procedure, your doctor uses a local anesthetic to numb the surgical area. They apply a clamp to the penis and remove the foreskin with sterile surgical tools. Generally, this takes 10 minutes or less.

Immediately after the procedure, your doctor applies an antibiotic ointment to prevent infection and promote healing, and then covers the area with clean gauze. They provide you with after-care instructions to help you care for your baby at home.

How long does it take to heal from a circumcision?

It can take up to 10 days for your baby’s penis to heal fully. It’s normal to see some swelling, bruising, and redness in the area during the healing process.

Initially, your baby may fuss because of discomfort. Artemis OB/GYN can recommend over-the-counter medicines to reduce pain and inflammation.

You will need to carefully wash the surgical site daily and change the gauze to prevent infection. It’s also important that you change your baby’s diaper regularly to prevent irritation.

If you have questions or concerns about circumcision, call to schedule an appointment at Artemis OB/GYN or use the online booking feature.