Circumcision Directory
Circumcision is the surgical removal of the foreskin, the tissue covering the head of the penis. It is an ancient practice that has its origin in religious rites. Today, many parents have their sons circumcised for religious or other reasons. A circumcision is usually performed within 48 hours of birth by an obstetrician or pediatrician in the hospital, or on the eighth day after birth for the Jewish ritual. The most clear-cut medical benefits of circumcision are a four- to tenfold decrease in the risk of urinary tract infections during the first year of life, and a threefold reduction in the risk of penile cancer among adult men. However, UTIs and cancer of the penis are rare. Studies also show a somewhat higher incidence among uncircumcised men of sexually transmitted diseases, including syphilis and HIV. Follow the links below to find WebMD's comprehensive coverage of circumcision, how and when circumcisions are performed, the risks and benefits of circumcision, and much more.
Medical Reference
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Circumcision Basics
Get basic facts on circumcision, including the benefits and risks of having it done.
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Circumcising Your Baby
How do you decide whether to have your baby boy circumcised? Learn more from WebMD about the pros and cons of circumcision.
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Your Baby Boy's Circumcision: What to Expect
Your newborn son’s first surgery may happen just a day or two after his birth. Here’s an overview of circumcision: what it is, how it’s done, and what to expect during recovery.
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HPV Infection in Men
HPV infection in men can cause health problems, too. Learn more.
Features
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Cutting to the Point on Circumcision
Agonizing over whether to circumcise.
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Procedure Offers Minimal Medical Benefits
Procedure Offers Minimal Medical Benefits
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Circumcision Decision: Weighing the Risks and Benefits
Male circumcision reduces HIV, cervical cancer, syphilis, and chlamydia. Does that mean you should have your son circumcised? This review of the risks and benefits will help you make that circumcision decision.
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Cutting to the Point on Circumcision
Parents in the United States have routinely circumcised their sons since the 1940s. But that trend is shifting.