Most men in the United States have been circumcised. Other than majority compliance, why is it even a consideration?
⚠️ Use Discretion: Graphic human anatomy.
A Little Extra Skin
During circumcision, the skin that covers the tip of the penis is surgically removed, exposing the glans. A clamp or ring is placed on the penis that later falls off. The doctor then applies an ointment like petroleum jelly and wraps it in gauze, allowing the patient to go home in a few hours.
Within 10 days, the surgical site should sufficiently heal. A medical need for circumcision includes correcting a foreskin that is too tight to be retracted from the glans or to reduce the risk of certain sexually transmitted infections.
Biblical Origin
The origin of male circumcision (Latin: cut around) is well documented in the Bible canon. The covenant was made with Abraham and his offspring in 1919 BCE. (Genesis 9:10). As illustrated on wall paintings and observed on mummies, circumcision was practiced by Egyptians. Some postulate this occurred when Joseph, the grandson of Abraham, ascended to power as food administrator in Egypt—centuries before the Israelite exodus.
The law later given through Moses included the requirement to circumcise males on the eighth day. (Leviticus 12:2, 3) Optimum amounts of blood-clotting vitamin K and prothrombin are present then. But the law’s Holy significance outweighed medical benefits. The requirement extended to proselytes. (Exodus 12:48)
As Israelites and non-Israelites became Christians in the first century, the question of whether circumcision remained a requirement was addressed by the Apostles. (Acts 15:5, 19) For Christians, it is optional. —1 Corinthians 7:19.
The foreskin covers the glans (head) of the penis before circumcision.
Health Benefits of Male Circumcision
Today, the 10-minute male circumcision procedure is performed in hospitals at the request of parents within 10 days of a male’s birth. This is common among Jewish and Islamic families, as well as Aboriginal tribes. Due to shorter hospital stays, most babies are circumcised within 2 days of birth.
Studies indicate that between 0–3 percent of all circumcisions have complications such as bleeding or infection. While leaving the choice to parents and adult male patients, the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) says the benefits of circumcision outweigh the slight risks:
- Easier hygiene – Washing the penis is simpler since it does not require retraction.
- Decreased risk of UTIs – Male urinary tract infections are more common in uncircumcised males.
- Decreased risk of STIs – Circumcised men might have a lower risk of certain sexually transmitted infections.
- Prevention of penile problems – A condition called phimosis prevents foreskin retraction, leading to inflammation.
- Decreased risk of penile cancer – Although cancer of the penis is less common in circumcised men, as is cervical cancer in their female sexual partners.
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As a global practice, about 80 percent of adult men in the United States have circumcised genitals. The months of August and September record the highest number of births. When deciding for their sons, many fathers may duplicate their own experience with circumcision or uncircumcision
Others dwell on the pain or emotional trauma—that the child will not remember days later. For male children to be A Bit More Healthy on into adulthood, parents may consider medical, religious, and/or hygienic criteria. Then discuss options with a family physician.
