A circumcision is a surgical procedure that removes the foreskin (the loose tissue) covering the glans (rounded tip) of the penis. Circumcision may be performed for religious or cultural reasons, or for health reasons. Newborn circumcision is thought to diminish the risk for cancer of the penis and lower the risk for cancer of the cervix in sexual partners. It is also believed to decrease the risk of urinary tract infection in infants and lower the risk of certain sexually transmitted disease especially HIV.
Is a circumcision safe?
Generally, circumcision is a safe surgical procedure if the following conditions are met:
- The circumcision is performed carefully, using strict aseptic (sterile) technique
- The circumcision is performed by a trained, experienced practitioner