A circumcision is the surgical removal of the foreskin of the penis; the loose bit of skin covering the rounded tip (glans) of the penis. Circumcision is commonly performed when patients have urinary tract infections or due to religious or cultural reasons. Another reason why circumcision may be performed could due to the glans being overly tight causing pain during sexual activity, and the like.

Circumcision in newborn males is also thought to reduce the risk of cancer of the penis. It is also thought to lower the risk of acquiring Aids and other sexually transmitted diseases, owing to the subsequent removal of the langerhan cells which are found in the foreskin.

Procedure information
Surgical clamp techniques or disposable plastic Plastibell may be used to perform the circumcision. The procedure is generally a safe one if it is performed by an experienced practitioner using the strict sterile technique.

Clamps, such as the Gomco clamp, Plastibell, and Mogen, are used for infant circumcision, where the blood supply to the foreskin is cut off. The foreskin and clamp come away within three to seven days using the Plastibell. With a Gomco clamp, the foreskin is drawn over a bell-type device, clamped and then cut away with a scalpel. Mogen clamps are said to see a better cosmetic result than with the other two methods.

Recovery time
Gauze impregnated with petroleum jelly is generally applied following completion of the circumcision and any instructions from the practitioner should be heeded. In the case of infant circumcisions, the area should be cleaned several times a day using warm water and some unscented petroleum jelly. An antibiotic ointment may also be prescribed.

The scab should come away within seven to 10 days after which no further care is required. Normal hygiene should see the penis cleaned thoroughly morning and night.