$Unique_ID{BRK00347}
$Pretitle{Genitourinary System}
$Title{Uncertainty Over Circumcision}
$Subject{circumcision newborn}
$Volume{J-23}
$Log{}

Copyright (c) 1991   Tribune Media Services, Inc.


Uncertainty Over Circumcision


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QUESTION:  We have been told that we can expect a baby boy when I deliver,
sometime in December.  We have been asked if we wish to have the baby
circumcised, and we are not sure what our answer should be.  We only want it
done, if it can do some good, and don't want to take any chances with our much
desired baby.  Do you have any information that can help us?

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ANSWER:  This is a difficult question for new parents to face, for the
opinions remain divided amongst physicians as to its benefits.  Those that
feel it is an important procedure for the newborn male baby point to many
scientific studies that indicate a reduction of infections in the urinary
tract of circumcised infants.  Other statistics would indicate that the risk
of penile cancer in later years is reduced almost to nonexistent.  Some
reports suggest that the chance of contracting sexually transmitted disease
are less in the population of circumcised men.  But those who hold the
opposing opinion state that good hygiene, and education about hygiene may
offer the same results.  The issue of cost to society for a procedure that may
be unnecessary is also discussed by opponents as a valid argument, since the
cost of the procedure on a newborn is about $100.00.  As you indicated there
are some risks, as with any surgical procedure, but those who support the
concept feel that these are extremely low, complications averaging about 2 in
10,000, while the risk of death is only about 1 for every 500,000 operations
performed.  The Ad Hoc Task Force on Circumcision of the American Academy of
Pediatrics could find no absolute medical indication for routine circumcision
of the newborn, in 1975.  But discussions continue, some times quite heated,
often with as much emotion as science.  Ask your physician for his opinion,
and to offer you some basis for his reasons.  Since he knows you and your
family, he is in a good position to offer you information and, if you wish,
advice.
ÿ
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The material contained here is "FOR INFORMATION ONLY" and should not replace 
the counsel and advice of your personal physician.  Promptly consulting your 
doctor is the best path to a quick and successful resolution of any medical 
problem.
