AKA
Being cut, being done
All boys are born with foreskins. But about one in ten 16-19 year olds in the UK no longer have one. They have been circumcised.
Ever since human history began, foreskins have been chopped off.
So why is it done?
Ever since human history began, foreskins have been chopped off. One theory is that our Ancient forefathers had had enough of sand collecting under this flap of skin. Snug boxers were unavailable beneath the toga.
And nowadays?
The debate over whether circumcision is a good thing rages all over the world. Many people feel strongly about it. And you thought it was just how some boys looked in the shower...
Culture/Religion
In some cultures, circumcision is essential to belonging. It is a rite of passage and a sign of identity.
Countries
Circumcision rates vary worldwide. In the US about 50% of men are circumcised. Mums (or should that be Moms?) choose to have their sons growing up looking like Dad.
Medical Reasons
Occasionally, a circumcision is medically necessary. Most often this is because a boy's foreskin is too tight, causing problems.
Health
Boys with no foreskin get fewer urine infections. And less inflammation around the foreskin (known in the trade as balanitis). Men with no foreskin are less likely to get cancer in the penis (though this is very rare for everyone). And in Africa, circumcised communities show lower HIV transmission rates.
Sounds good - I think I'll go get mine lopped off now...
Whoa there.
Here's the flip-side:
Sex
Some men feel their sex life is affected by their circumcision. The skin on the head of the penis gets thicker if not covered by a foreskin and this may reduce sensation.
Risks
A circumcision is a surgical procedure. It hurts, there is a risk of bleeding and infection and occasionally penises are disfigured or damaged as a result. About one in 500,000 circumcisions results in death. And one in a million in "loss of the penis".
The risks are higher when the operation is done by an inexperienced or unqualified surgeon. All adults must refrain from both masturbation and sex for six weeks afterwards. Think about it.
Human Rights
Some people believe babies cannot say if they want a foreskin or not. So they should be left alone till they are old enough to decide.
The NHS
Only circumcisions that need doing for medical reasons are available on the NHS. This is fewer than one in ten. So most are done privately. That doesn't mean doctors do not respect the beliefs and wishes of all cultures. We do.
And what do girls think?
Most girls don't mind one way or another. Basic hygiene, basic technique and basic consideration. After that, a penis is a penis is a penis. Fore-skinned or not.
Further help and advice
www.nhsdirect.nhs.uk/articles/article.aspx?articleId=649§ionId=27384
www.bbc.co.uk/health/conditions/circumcision1.shtml
Written by Dr Melissa Sayer
Last updated 3rd July 2007
Drake, 18
I was circumcised last year. Don't be scared. Like ben I am now much happier being a roundhead
Scott, 18
I was circumcised a few months ago, there is a bit of pain and discomfort for the first week or so but after that it's fine. Like ben I much prefer being a roundhead now. It's impossible to get my skin caught in my fly anymore because there is no loose skin :)
Sid, 18
I have been circumcised my whole life. I am fine with it. I do wonder what it would be like to have foreskin though.
bob, 12
i got mine done when i was like six
paul, 13
i was circumcised at the age of 12 i dont feel any difference when i masturbate
Jack, 14
I got circumcised a couple of monthes ago cus my foreskin was to small for the end, it's not too bad guys so don't wory.
Ben, 19
I was circumcised last year coz my skin was tight and cuasing probs. I much prefer being a roundhead. Guy's don;t worry if you need it doing get it done! Less is more.
onelife
boys_bodies_circumcision