IS BABY CIRCUMCISION UNETHICAL?    

Written by: Caroline Meyer

What is circumcision? 

This is a surgical procedure which is performed on boys and men. The foreskin covering the end of the penis is surgically removed. This is a double layer of skin and mucous membranes which is designed to protect the glans (head) of the penis from irritation and dryness. There are many arguments for and against circumcision.  

Circumcision Reasons 

Sometimes circumcision may be required due to injury or infection but usually this is a voluntary procedure. Parents may choose to circumcise their baby boy so that he looks like his father and other family members. Others base their decision around cultural or religious traditions and requirements. Many parents choose circumcision as it is believed to be healthier and more hygienic and may possibly reduce risk of illness and disease later in life. 

For other parents they believe the child should have the right to make the decision themselves later in life. While others believe that the risk of complications outweigh the benefits for their child. For all parents, this should be a considered choice as it is a lifetime decision for their son. 

What Do The Experts Say? 

The CDC (US Centre for Disease Control) says that parents should be given all the information required to make an informed choice. The recommendation is that the health benefits of circumcision outweigh the risks and that every parent should be able to make this choice for their child. Circumcision may reduce the risk of urinary tract infections, some STDs and even penile cancers. Circumcision can also reduce the risk of HIV infection by up to 60% when having sex with an infected female partner. There is no reduction in risk for male to male HIV transmission though. There is also no reduced risk of passing HIV on to a female partner if infected. There is a reduced risk of up to 45% of contracting genital herpes. The risk of infections such as bacterial vaginosis, HPV and trichomoniasis are lower in female partners of circumcised men. Most of these benefits can be attributed to the foreskin being at risk of tears during sex which allows for germs to enter the body easier. The foreskin also traps viruses and bacteria and allows them to flourish in a moist environment. 

Risks Of Circumcision 

Swelling and minor bleeding are the most common issues experienced. Other issues include the foreskin that remains sticking to the glans while healing. This is easily remedied in most cases. There is also a risk of scar tissue around the penis causing problems with sexual function, urination and hygiene. This may require further surgery to correct. As with most surgery, there is risk of infection. This is usually treatable with antibiotics and is generally mild. Severe complications can include sepsis, bleeding that persists and requires stiches to stem, partial amputation of the penis or removal of too much skin which can affect function and appearance. The penis may also not heal properly leading to shortening of the penis or scarring which could cause the penis to be shaped oddly or cause discomfort when erect. Most complications however are minor and quite rare with only around 1 in 500 circumcisions resulting in complications of any kind. If too much skin is left behind, it can also result in a second circumcision needing to be done once baby is 6 months old and this would be done under general anaesthesia. 

It is up to you as a parent to balance up the benefits and risks and make an informed decision on behalf of your baby boy. Discuss the matter with your doctor and other relevant persons before deciding. Some countries are calling for a ban on the practise claiming it violates the rights of children but for the most part, medical organisations still leave the decision up to the parents of the child.