and Health
Deciding whether or not to circumcise your son is a choice that many parents find difficult. While there is some medical evidence to suggest the procedure can offer some health benefits, there are also some potential risks attached to it. To help you gain insight into the pros and cons of circumcision and health, we have outlined the key points to consider.
Pros of Circumcision and Health
Circumcision has been found to offer several potential health benefits in males. These include:
- Reduced Risk of Urinary Tract Infections – Studies suggest that circumcised boys are far less likely to experience urinary tract infections. In fact, the risk is reduced by around 10 times more than an uncircumcised boy.
- Decreased Risk of STIs – Circumcised men have a much lower risk of catching and spreading Sexually Transmitted Infections such as HIV. This has been attributed to the removal of foreskin that can be home to bacteria or viruses.
- Lower Cancer Risk – Some evidence suggests that uncircumcised men have higher rates of Penile and Prostate Cancer. However, these are still rare conditions, regardless of whether or not a man is circumcised.
Cons of Circumcision and Health
As with any medical procedure, there are some potential risks involved in circumcision. These include:
- Risk of Bleeding, Infection, and Pain – As with any surgical procedure, there is a risk of bleeding, infection and a certain amount of pain related to circumcision, both during the procedure and afterwards.
- Complications of Anesthesia – The use of general anesthesia during the procedure carries its own risks and should be considered carefully.
- Damage to Genitalia – Studies estimate that around one percent of circumcised males experience complications such as damage to the penis or surrounding area.
The decision to circumcise your son should never be taken lightly. With that said, it’s important to weigh up the pros and cons of circumcision and health and make an informed decision. Be sure to talk to your doctor and discuss all the potential risks and complications of the procedure.