Circumcision is one of those controversial decisions that every parent of a boy must make. We have blogged on it before but I felt it necessary to revisit the issue. The AAP has been neutral on the issue saying that the potential benefits of circumcision do not necessitate the procedure. They describe it as “preventative” rather than necessary. However, based on two new studies showing that circumcision substantially reduces the risk of spreading HIV and STDs, the AAP is reviewing their stance.
One point that has been brought out repeatedly by those on both sides of the debate is that parents are not truly informed of the risks and benefits of circumcision. Most parents make the decision based on social and/or religious issues. As a parent of a boy, I can attest to this. Even my own pediatrician, who as far as I’m concerned is one of the best, failed to discuss with me circumcision while I was pregnant with my son.
Medical Reasons for Circumcision
Circumcision reduces the risk of infections. Both urinary tract infections and sexually transmitted diseases are reduced by circumcision. Circumcision has been shown to be associated with a reduced risk of penile cancer as well.
Other Facts You Should Know
However, experts feel that circumcision also will affect sexual intercourse as circumcision involves removing the foreskin where millions of receptors are. In the United States, most men have the resources necessary to buy condoms to protect against AIDS and other sexually transmitted diseases and while circumcision reduces the spread of HIV as well as STD’s, it doesn’t stop it completely. Partners still must use safe sex practices. Although circumcision may serve as a preventative measure for penile cancer, this type of cancer is very rare.
You should also know that the studies were done in Africa, where hygiene is very poor and HIV is epidemic. Many doctors argue that while perhaps circumcision is one answer to the AIDS crisis in Africa, it doesn’t necessarily have to be an answer for boys in the United States where hygiene is much better, health care is more readily available, and HIV is not as rampant.
For my part, I am very interested to see what the AAP recommends. This is one issue that parents should definitely watch. I also recommend that anyone who is expecting a boy should speak with their pediatrician regarding circumcision and get all the facts before making the decision in the hospital.
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