Circumcision

In males, circumcision is the surgical removal of the foreskin which covers the head of the penis. 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.

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 perfectly natural.