Difference between revisions of "Circumcision"
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| − | In males, '''circumcision''' is the surgical removal of the foreskin which covers the head of the male reproductive organ. This operation is usually performed early in a child's life. Circumcision is common in Western countries and the [[Middle East]]. In the [[United States]], 85% of all newborn boys are circumsized. | + | In males, '''circumcision''' is the surgical removal of the foreskin which covers the head of the male reproductive organ. This operation is usually performed early in a child's life. Circumcision is common in Western countries and the [[Middle East]]. In the northern areas of the [[United States]], around 85% of all newborn boys are circumsized.<ref>http://www.cirp.org/library/statistics/USA/</ref> |
The procedure lasts only 10 minutes and is often performed in a hospital before the baby is taken home. Local anesthesia and antibacterial ointment are used to prevent pain and infection. Circumcision has the benefits of preventing urinary tract infections, penile cancer and certain sexually transmitted diseases (STDs). Some boys may experience a small amount of bleeding or redness and this is a normal part of the procedure. | The procedure lasts only 10 minutes and is often performed in a hospital before the baby is taken home. Local anesthesia and antibacterial ointment are used to prevent pain and infection. Circumcision has the benefits of preventing urinary tract infections, penile cancer and certain sexually transmitted diseases (STDs). Some boys may experience a small amount of bleeding or redness and this is a normal part of the procedure. | ||
Female circumcision, practiced in parts of Africa, is a much different procedure that can have lasting effects on a girl's health. The procedure may range from a simple cut in the pubic region to the complete removal of parts of the female reproductive organs. While the procedure is an important part of some African cultures, there is increased pressure by women's groups worldwide to ban it. | Female circumcision, practiced in parts of Africa, is a much different procedure that can have lasting effects on a girl's health. The procedure may range from a simple cut in the pubic region to the complete removal of parts of the female reproductive organs. While the procedure is an important part of some African cultures, there is increased pressure by women's groups worldwide to ban it. | ||
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Revision as of 14:36, July 3, 2007
In males, circumcision is the surgical removal of the foreskin which covers the head of the male reproductive organ. This operation is usually performed early in a child's life. Circumcision is common in Western countries and the Middle East. In the northern areas of the United States, around 85% of all newborn boys are circumsized.[1]
The procedure lasts only 10 minutes and is often performed in a hospital before the baby is taken home. Local anesthesia and antibacterial ointment are used to prevent pain and infection. Circumcision has the benefits of preventing urinary tract infections, penile cancer and certain sexually transmitted diseases (STDs). Some boys may experience a small amount of bleeding or redness and this is a normal part of the procedure.
Female circumcision, practiced in parts of Africa, is a much different procedure that can have lasting effects on a girl's health. The procedure may range from a simple cut in the pubic region to the complete removal of parts of the female reproductive organs. While the procedure is an important part of some African cultures, there is increased pressure by women's groups worldwide to ban it.