Circumcision - the pro side

[brittny]

I really enjoyed the archived episode on circumcision and found it to be very insightful. However, I would really like to hear the other side of the story. The doctor on the show was definitely anti-circumcision and he noted another doctor who was very pro-circumcision. As the soon-to-be mom of a baby boy I definitely want to make sure I'm making the right choice. Despite the information on this show that says it's essentially cosmetic, I have 3 uncircumcised brothers who have had multiple infections down south because little boys aren't always as diligent in keeping their bodies as clean as we'd like to think they would. I'd just like to hear the other side of the story.

[scribblerpnp]

Based on research, circumcision is cosmetic.

There isn't any good research that supports that circumcised kids have less infections than noncirc'd kids.

That being said, a noncirc'd kid can have adhesions if the foreskin is properly taken care of, and these can result in a possible infection or phimosis of the penis. BUT I have seen circ'd kids with little taken off have the same problem. Some docs cut off more than others and some circ'd kids look like they haven't even had one!

If you want to circ you child, that is up to you and your choice. You shouldn't have to explain your reasoning to anyone. But if you are trying to find medical research to back you up, that is going to be impossible. There just isn't any valid, well-done research that states circumcision is healthier and the major pediatric organizations (AAP, NAPNAP) all have statements that it is unneccessary.

I'm a peditatric primary care provider and strongly believe that circumcision isn't necessary. But if we have a boy he will be circ'd because that is what my husband wants and it is a safe procedure with few to no long-term advantages or disadvantages.

A good provider shouldn't be judgemental either way with your decision.