Circumcision is the surgical removal of the foreskin that normally covers the glans of the penis. This double layer is commonly known as the foreskin. There are many myths and misunderstandings about circumcision. One should be aware of the complexities of the circumcision procedure by speaking to a doctor about what is involved in the procedure.

Why is the Foreskin there?

The penile foreskin has three basic functions: protective, sensory, and sexual. In most cases, the foreskin is still fused to the glans at birth and will separate over a variable period of time over the first few years. Throughout infancy, the foreskin protects against abrasion from diapers and/or feces. Throughout childhood and adulthood, the foreskin keeps the glans soft and moist and protects it from injury. Parts of the foreskin, such as the mucosa and frenulum, are particularly sensitive and contribute to sexual pleasure. Specialized nerve endings enhance sexual pleasure and control.

The inner foreskin is the skin directly against the glans of your penis. Like the lining of the mouth, this tissue is thinner and of a different texture and color than the remainder of the skin covering the penis. The foreskin provides ample loose skin for the penis to occupy when erect. It is a movable skin sheath for the penis during intercourse, reducing chafing and the need for artificial lubricants, and allowing the glans and foreskin to naturally stimulate each other.

Why is Circumcision Performed?

Circumcision is primarily performed for cultural or religious reasons. Because a large number of men in English-speaking Western countries are circumcised, many think of the foreskin as an unnecessary part of the penis. Many circumcisions are performed because a circumcised father often does not want to feel that he is different from his son.

It is often said that a circumcised penis is cleaner, or easier to keep clean, than an intact penis. Smegma (a natural substance composed of dead skin cells, normal flora, and secretions containing the natural antibacterial agent lysozyme) is more likely to accumulate when the foreskin is present. Medical grounds for circumcision that are most commonly cited are:

- Reduced risk of Urinary Tract Infections (UTI)

- Reduced risk of penile or cervical cancer

- Reduced risk of Sexually Transmitted Diseases (STD's).

Experts disagree about whether circumcision reduces UTI, but this seems to be the strongest of all medical claims in favor of circumcision, because it can have serious consequences. These infections can, however, in most cases be treated by antibiotics. The frequency of UTI in US male infants is approximately 1%, and is even higher for females. There is evidence that babies who are breastfed have a lower incidence of UTI. Penile cancer is extremely rare and occurs mostly in older men and can occur in both circumcised and intact men. The theory that the presence of a foreskin may cause an increased risk of sexually transmitted diseases has also been disproved.

The foreskin usually does not fully retract for several years and should never be forced. When the foreskin is fully retractable, boys should be taught the importance of washing underneath the foreskin gently every day. Harsh soap and excessive washing can irritate the penis, which can lead to inflammation of the glans.

Smegma is a white waxy substance that can appear under the foreskin. It consists of natural secretions and shed skin cells. In the past it was feared that smegma might be carcinogenic, but this also has been disproved. Basically, good general hygiene and common sense are essential in preventing infection and disease.

Infant Circumcision Risks:

Circumcision is a type of surgery and like any surgical procedure, there are risks involved. These can include:

- Excessive bleeding

- Infection

- Surgical error, including removal of too much skin

- Meatal Stenosis

- Extensive scarring of the penile shaft skin tags

- Painful erections

- Curvature of the penis

Reasons not to be Circumcised:

The penile foreskin is a healthy, natural part of his body. It is possible, though very unlikely, that it will cause serious problems throughout one's life. Adulthood may bring about sexual changes, where one would prefer not to be circumcised. Leaving a child's foreskin alone preserves his right to a whole body and to decide for himself whether it is something he wants.

Is Circumcision Painful?

The often repeated statement that babies don't feel pain is untrue. Most circumcisions are performed without anesthetic, because there are risks involved with using anesthetics on babies. Sometimes local injections are used, but this does not eliminate pain. Medical literature shows that babies are just as sensitive to pain as anyone else. Most babies will show signs of pain during the procedure and in the days or weeks following circumcision. Recent studies have shown that the pain can be remembered long beyond the time of the procedure itself.