Question 1

Is circumcision medically necessary?

Accepted Answer

No major medical organization in the world recommends routine infant circumcision. The American Academy of Pediatrics states that while there may be potential benefits, they are not sufficient to recommend universal newborn circumcision. Most European medical associations explicitly advise against it.

Question 2

Does circumcision prevent infections?

Accepted Answer

The foreskin has natural protective functions. While some studies suggest circumcision may reduce certain infection rates, proper hygiene is equally effective. The protective benefits of circumcision are debated, and many medical professionals argue the risks outweigh the benefits for routine infant procedures.

Question 3

Is circumcision painful for infants?

Accepted Answer

Yes. Studies show infants experience significant pain during circumcision. While anesthesia is sometimes used, it doesn't eliminate all pain, and many circumcisions are still performed with inadequate pain management. Infants may experience lasting physiological stress responses.

Question 4

Why is infant circumcision considered an ethical issue?

Accepted Answer

Circumcision permanently removes healthy, functional tissue from a person who cannot consent. This conflicts with the bioethical principles of autonomy (right to decide about one's own body), non-maleficence (do no harm), and informed consent that govern modern medical practice.

Question 5

Can parents consent to circumcision on behalf of their child?

Accepted Answer

While parents can legally consent to medical procedures, ethical guidelines limit this to procedures that are medically necessary. Since routine circumcision is not medically necessary, many ethicists argue it should be the individual's choice when they reach adulthood.

Question 6

What does the foreskin do?

Accepted Answer

The foreskin serves multiple functions: it protects the glans, maintains moisture and sensitivity, contains specialized nerve endings for sexual sensation, and provides mechanical function during intercourse. It contains approximately 20,000 nerve endings.

Question 7

Does circumcision affect sexual function?

Accepted Answer

Research indicates circumcision can affect sexual sensation and function. The foreskin contains specialized nerve endings, and its removal results in keratinization of the glans over time. Many circumcised men report reduced sensitivity, especially as they age.

Question 8

Will my son be bullied if he's not circumcised?

Accepted Answer

Circumcision rates have declined significantly in many Western countries. In the US, only about 55% of newborns are now circumcised, and rates are much lower in other English-speaking countries. Many European and Asian countries rarely circumcise. Your son will likely not be unusual.

Question 9

Should my son 'match' his father?

Accepted Answer

Children rarely compare their genitals to their parents. If the topic comes up, it's an opportunity for honest conversation about how practices change. Many fathers who are circumcised choose not to circumcise their sons once they learn about the procedure.

Question 10

What are alternatives to infant circumcision?

Accepted Answer

The main alternative is simply not circumcising. If your son develops a medical issue later, most foreskin conditions can be treated with conservative methods like steroid creams or minor procedures that preserve the foreskin. Full circumcision is rarely medically necessary.

Question 11

Can circumcision be reversed?

Accepted Answer

While the removed tissue cannot be regrown, foreskin restoration through stretching techniques can create new skin coverage. Research organizations like Foregen are working on regenerative medicine solutions to restore the foreskin's structure and function.

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