Circumcision

Circumcision is the surgical removal of the foreskin, the retractable fold of skin that covers the head (glans) of the penis. It is a procedure typically performed on newborns, but can also be done on older children and adults. Circumcision is one of the oldest and most common surgical procedures worldwide.

Additional Information

The reasons for circumcision vary and can include religious and cultural traditions, family customs, personal hygiene, preventive health care, and medical need. In some cultures, particularly in Judaism and Islam, circumcision is considered a important rite of passage. From a medical perspective, circumcision is sometimes recommended for therapeutic reasons such as when the foreskin is too tight to be pulled back (phimosis) or when there are recurrent infections of the foreskin.

There is ongoing debate about the potential health benefits and risks of circumcision. Some research suggests circumcision may decrease the risk of certain infections and diseases. However, circumcision is not universally practiced, and many view it as unnecessary and even harmful. Ultimately, the decision to circumcise is a personal one that may involve multiple factors.