Circumcision Dr Rob Hicks In the UK, the majority of circumcisions performed soon after birth are for religious reasons. Sometimes circumcision is performed on newborn boys in the belief that it's beneficial for a man's health. But is there any truth in this?

In this article

Foreskin functions Benefits

Disadvantages Operation details

After the operation

The main function of the foreskin is as a physical barrier. It protects the head of the penis (glans penis) from damage that may occur when clothes rub against it.

It's role in heightening sexual pleasure is hotly debated. Many men believe the movement of the foreskin during foreplay and intercourse enhances their sexual experience, but others believe that being circumcised brings more sexual reward for them and their partners.

If a boy or man has recurrent medical problems related to the foreskin, circumcision may be advised

From a medical point of view, if a boy or man has recurrent medical problems related to the foreskin, circumcision may be advised. For example, if the foreskin is contributing to infections of the head of the penis, which will recur unless the foreskin is removed, circumcision may be recommended.

Tightening of the foreskin (phimosis) can create difficulties urinating and in adulthood can make sex very uncomfortable. Circumcision may be offered, although it's no longer the only treatment option. Newer treatments available include steroid creams, stretching and preputioplasty.

It's been suggested in studies that penile cancer and transmission of the HIV infection are less likely in circumcised men. However, this issue is not clear cut.

Studies in Africa have shown that men who are circumcised are less likely to contract HIV when practising heterosexual sex than men who aren't circumcised. Whether circumcision reduces the risk of HIV infection in men practising homosexual sex remains unclear.

Researchers have emphasised that using a condom is still very important, whether or not a man is circumcised.

In the UK, routine circumcision isn't thought to be medically necessary

In the UK, routine circumcision isn't thought to be medically necessary. This is because the risks associated with having a surgical procedure that involves a general anaesthetic and the possible postoperative complications outweigh any possible medical benefits.

Infection and bleeding are common after circumcision and, although usually easily treated, can be very uncomfortable and distressing for the patient and those close to him.

Loss of the protection provided by the foreskin can allow abrasion of the penis head to occur. This can result in scarring and loss of physical sensation.

Some teenagers and men who were circumcised shortly after birth describe feeling physically and psychologically traumatised, and robbed of the choice of whether or not to be circumcised. These problems can lead to difficulties with social and personal development if not addressed.

When the whole foreskin is removed it's cut away and the skin that remains is sewn to the base of the head of the penis. A circumcised penis has the appearance of an uncircumcised one when the foreskin is pulled back.

The skin appears red and slightly swollen, and will probably be uncomfortable. Simple painkillers, such as paracetamol, are usually all that's needed to relieve any discomfort. It's also a good idea not to wear underpants to avoid rubbing. The stitches dissolve and disappear after a week or so.

You should be able to return to school/work after about ten days and play sport after a month.

If there's any persistent bleeding, swelling, redness or discharge near the stitches, seek advice from your doctor or nurse.

This article was last medically reviewed by Dr Rob Hicks in December 2007