Circumcision for children

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Definition

What is circumcision

For many people, circumcision is a religious ritual. Circumcision can also be a family tradition, for reasons of personal hygiene, or health care. However, for some people, circumcision may be considered unnecessary. After circumcision, it is usually not possible to return the penis to its original shape as it was before circumcision.

Are there alternatives to circumcision?

If your child has BXO detected, circumcision is the only reliable way to cure the condition. For other conditions, dorsal slit surgery or preputioplasty may be recommended. If your child does not have BXO, dorsal slit surgery may be recommended. This is a procedure to dilate the opening to the foreskin.

Process

What should children do before circumcision?

Prior to circumcision, the doctor will explain the risks and benefits of the procedure. If you are planning for your child to be circumcised, you will be signing approval for the procedure. You should discuss with the doctor about any medications your child is currently using, allergies, or any medical conditions he is experiencing, and before the operation you will meet with the anesthetist and plan anesthesia for your child together. It is important to follow the instructions on when to stop eating and drinking beforehand for surgery.

How to process this operation

Circumcised penises should be cleaned with soap and water every day and every dirty diaper (for babies). If the penis has been wrapped in gauze, clean the gauze each time the diaper is changed. Petroleum jelly can be used on the head of the penis, which may irritate the diaper and urine.

Slight swelling and bleeding may occur and clear crusts often form around the area. In most cases, circumcision will heal normally in 5-7 days.

Contact your doctor if:

• the bleeding does not stop or it increases a lot
• child does not urinate 6-8 hours after circumcision
• redness or swelling doesn't go away, or gets worse, after 3-5 days
• yellowish discharge or a yellowish layer appears after 7 days
• babies have a temperature above 38 degrees Celsius or more
• The Plastibell appliance does not come off in 7-12 days.

Complications

What complications can occur?

The most common complications associated with circumcision are bleeding and infection. Side effects associated with anesthesia may also occur.

Although rare, circumcision can produce problems with the foreskin. Example:

• the foreskin can be cut too short or too long
• the foreskin can fail to heal properly
• The remaining foreskin can reappear at the tip of the penis, requiring minor corrective surgery

Hello Health Group does not provide medical advice, diagnosis or treatment.