Circumcision -Risks and Benefits

Circumcision is the removal of the foreskin-the skin that covers the tip of the penis. 

There are medical benefits and risks to circumcision. 

Benefits: circumcision protects against 

1.)urinary tract infections
2.)penile cancer 
3.)sexually transmitted diseases.

Circumcision changes the bacteria ecosystem of the penis, perhaps explaining why the procedure reduces the risk of HIV infection,  

Benefits to the partner:

Circumcision has also been shown to reduce the risk of contracting HPV, or human papillomavirus, which can cause cervical cancer if a man infects his female partners with the virus, and herpes simplex virus type 2, better known as genital herpes.

Risks 
1.)pain
2.)risk of bleeding 
3.)infection. 

These risks are higher for older kids and men. so it's better to do as early as possible if we are sure about the procedure . This can be done safely in new born period  also 

American Academy of Pediatrics to conclude in 2012 that the benefits outweigh the risks.(benefits>risks) 


Parents need to decide what is best for their kids based on their religious, cultural and personal preferences.