Circumcision

What is a circumcision and why is it done?

Circumcision is the surgical removal of the foreskin of the penis. It is most often done soon after birth. There are different opinions about whether this needs to be done. The American Academy of Pediatrics (aap.org) has said that there is no need to routinely circumcise newborn boys. However, there is a new research, which seems to show that boys who are not circumcised may be more likely to get urinary tract infections. The AAP is considering changing its opinion because of this research. A local anesthetic is used if the baby is less than eight weeks old (Adjusted for gestational age). General anesthesia is used for older boys.

How is a circumcision done?

A local anesthesia called a "penile block" is used if the baby is less than eight weeks old. This is an injection, which is given at the base of the penis. It numbs the penis. The circumcision takes about twenty minutes. It is done in the treatment room on the unit where your baby is a patient. A baby who has a heart condition is given an antibiotic before the circumcision is done. This will protect against bacterial endocarditis (also called (SBE). The doctor will use a Plastibell to do the circumcision. This is a clear plastic ring that is placed between the head of the penis and the rim of the foreskin. It is left in place after the foreskin is removed. The ring is held in place by a string, which is tied around it. In about 3-14 days, the string, the plastic ring, and the rim of the foreskin will fall off.

Postoperative Care: Caring for your baby after circumcision

The penis will be discolored and swollen. The baby may have a few drops of blood in his diaper for 24 hours after the circumcision. There should not be any clots of blood or any drops of blood larger than the size of a penny. The baby should be able to urinate normally and without difficulty. Tylenol and comfort measures like rocking should relieve any discomfort.

  • Put Vaseline on the tip of the penis each time you change the baby's diaper. Do this for two full weeks after the circumcision so that the diaper does not stick to the penis.

  • If the baby has pain, use acetaminophen (for example, Tylenol) drops or liquid. Give this in an amount and frequency recommended for your baby.
  • Sponge bathe only for two days. After two days the baby can be bathed as usual.
  • The baby may have an appointment in the Pediatric Surgery Clinic two to three weeks after the circumcision.

When to call the doctor

  • If the baby has pain or discomfort not helped by Tylenol.
  • If the baby has difficulty urinating.
  • If there are any clots or drops of blood larger than a penny in the diaper.
  • If there is any unusual swelling.
  • If there is any kind of drainage.
  • If you have any questions.

Phone numbers and hours

We are open Monday through Friday From 8:00am to 5:00pm. Office number is (734) 764-4151. After office hours and on weekends or holidays, call Paging at (734) 936-6267, and ask to have the Pediatric Surgery Resident on-call paged.

This information is provided by the University of Michigan Department of Surgery, Section of Pediatric Surgery and is not intended to replace the medical advice of your doctor or health care provider. Please consult your health care provider for advice about a specific medical condition. For additional health information, please contact your health care provider or our offices.