Newborn Circumcision: Advantages and Things to Consider
Newborn circumcision, is an important practice preferred by many families today. This procedure offers many benefits not only for religious reasons but also in terms of health. Experts emphasize that circumcision performed at the right time and with appropriate techniques has positive effects on the physical and psychological development of children. In this article, we will discuss in detail the advantages of newborn circumcision, which age groups it carries risks in, and post-circumcision care.
What is circumcision?
Circumcision, in medical terms Circumcision, is the surgical removal of some or all of the skin covering the head of the penis. This procedure is widely practiced in many countries, especially in Türkiye, for religious and cultural reasons. According to the legal regulations determined by the Ministry of Health, circumcision can only be performed by specialist physicians. Therefore, it is extremely important that the person who will perform the circumcision is an experienced pediatric surgeon or pediatric urologist.
Advantages of Newborn Circumcision
Circumcision performed during the newborn period has many important advantages:
- Wound Healing: Although newborns' immune systems are not yet fully developed, the wound healing process is quite fast. Therefore, the recovery period after the procedure is short.
- Bleeding Risk: The risk of bleeding in newborn circumcisions is minimal. The vascular structure of babies provides a suitable environment for such procedures.
- Ease of Maintenance: Care after newborn circumcision is much simpler than for older children. Families face fewer challenges with post-circumcision care.
Which Age Range is Suitable for Circumcision?
Although circumcision can be done at any age, 2-6 age This age range is not recommended for children between 18-20 years old because it carries a risk in terms of psychological development. Experts state that infancy is the most suitable time for circumcision. Because during this period, wound healing occurs faster and the psychological effects of children are minimal.
Anesthesia Practice
The view that babies do not feel pain before circumcision is wrong. Babies can also feel pain; therefore, anesthesia must be applied. For small babies local anesthesia is preferred for older children general anesthesia would be a more appropriate approach. Anesthesia makes the procedure more comfortable.
Circumcision Methods
There are various methods for newborn circumcision. These include surgical circumcision, clip, plastibell and laser (with solder) methods. Most physicians prefer the surgical method based on their experience. This preference directly affects the success rate of circumcision.
Preparations Before Circumcision
The child must be examined by a doctor before circumcision. It is also recommended that any medications that may increase the risk of bleeding be discontinued one week before the procedure. This increases the safety of the procedure.
Methods to Reduce the Risk of Infection
Families are often concerned about the risk of infection after circumcision. However, with proper care and hygiene, this risk is quite low. Paying attention to the following recommendations will reduce the risk of infection:
- Circumcision should not be performed while there is an active infection.
- Circumcision should be performed in a sterile environment.
- Attention should be paid to bottom cleaning and diaper changing.
- Shower frequently and care should be taken with the recommended antibiotic ointments.
Does Summer Heat Prevent Circumcision?
Hot weather conditions do not have a direct negative effect on circumcision. Circumcision can be performed safely at any time of the year when performed under appropriate conditions. Summer vacations are ideal times for circumcision, especially for children who attend school.
Entry Time to the Sea and Pools
After circumcision, it is usually enough to wait a week to go to the sea or the pool. However, depending on the child's condition and the type of circumcision, the doctor may have a different recommendation. After the wound healing is complete and the risk of infection is reduced, the child can easily go to the pool or the sea. This period usually does not exceed a week.
