Circumcision Decision

AAP Circumcision Policy Statement

"Existing scientific evidence demonstrates potential medical benefits of newborn male circumcision; however, these data are not sufficient to recommend routine neonatal circumcision. In circumstances in which there are potential benefits and risks, yet the procedure is not essential to the child's current well-being, parents should determine what is in the best interest of the child. To make an informed choice, parents of all male infants should be given accurate and unbiased information and be provided with the opportunity to discuss this decision. If a decision for a circumcision is made, procedural analgesia should be provided."

I think this translates into "it's up to you."

Benefits

• Less risk of urinary tract infection, especially in males less than 1 year of age
• Questionable: less risk of penile cancer

Complications

• Bleeding
• Unsatisfactory cosmesis (it may look bad)
• Infection
• Need for revision if it doesn't heal well.  This requires general anesthesia if the child isn't a newborn.

Information on how to care for your boy (depending on your decision) is found here.

Circumcisions that "grow back"