Circumcision

A circumcision is a cosmetic procedure in which the foreskin (the skin that covers the tip of the penis) is surgically removed.  This procedure is typically performed by a trained obstetrician, pediatrician, or urologist.  To ensure your baby’s comfort during a circumcision, at Alliance Obstetrics & Gynecology Group, prior to the procedure the penis cleaned and then numbed with local anesthesia.  The foreskin is separated from the penis and gently removed. After the procedure, an ointment is applied to the penis and gauze is placed over top.  

While circumcision was initially practiced as part of a religious belief, there are several healthcare benefits including decreased incidence of urinary tract infections, decreased incidence of penile cancer, and decreased risk of contracting sexually transmitted infections including HIV.  Risks of a circumcision include a small amount of bleeding, infection, reaction to anesthesia, post procedure discomfort, and wound healing complications. 

Once your baby boy is born, a circumcision can be performed at any of the following locations:

• in the hospital with the pediatrician who is caring for your baby
• at your pediatrician’s office
• at the Alliance Obstetrics & Gynecology Group office when your baby is less than 10 days old

After your baby has been circumcised, you will be provided with instructions to help you care for your baby and his circumcised penis. It is important to keep the penis clean and apply Vaseline ointment at each diaper change until the penis has healed.  Call your pediatrician if you notice any bleeding, discharge/pus, or if your baby is not urinating after the procedure. 

If you’re pregnant with or have delivered a baby boy, schedule a circumcision with us at Alliance Obstetrics & Gynecology and The Center for Pediatric & Adolescent Gynecology.