Circumcision has become a hot subject of debate and controversy. Experts have different opinions about it. It has many health benefits, but at the same time, risks are also involved. However, opponents highlight potential risks and concerns surrounding this procedure. In this blog, you will be provided with details about its benefits, risks, supportive studies, and expert opinions to know if its benefits outweigh the risks. Let’s get started.
Benefits of circumcision
According to different studies, circumcision brings the following health benefits that make it essential to circumcise your male infants.
- Reduced risk of heterosexually acquired HIV infection in men by approximately 60%.
- Decreased risk of other sexually transmitted diseases.
- Improved hygiene and easier genital care.
- Reduce chances of incidence of urinary tract infections.
- Minimize the risk of penile cancer.
- Ensure prevention against balanitis (inflammation of the glans).
- Decreased risk of phimosis (tight foreskin) and paraphimosis (inability to retract the foreskin).
- Potential reduction in the risk of cervical cancer in female partners.
- Enhanced sexual sensitivity and pleasure for some men.
- Cultural or religious significance for certain communities.
Risks of circumcision
Circumcision risks are rare, but improper procedures can lead to complications. Inexperienced individuals performing circumcisions without supervision pose a problem. It is crucial to have trained doctors, preferably urologists, conduct the procedure. Many family practitioners and pediatricians also do circumcisions, but competence and experience are the key. Choosing someone with a solid track record is vital, as circumcision is a simple procedure but involves risks if not done correctly. Here are a few risks involved.
- Pain
- excessive bleeding
- Urine issues
- Infection on penis
Do the benefits of circumcision outweigh the risks?
The question of do the benefits of circumcision outweigh the risks is a complex and long-debated topic. While it offers potential health benefits, such as a reduced risk of HIV infection, decreased risk of sexually transmitted diseases, improved hygiene, and lower chances of urinary tract infections, it is essential to consider the risks involved.
The risks of circumcision, although rare. Some possible risks can be pain, excessive bleeding, urine issues, and infection of the penis. However, It is essential that circumcise by trained professionals with experience to minimize the risks. Improper procedures conducted by inexperienced individuals without supervision can lead to complications.
Ultimately, the decision to circumcise should be made based on individual circumstances, personal beliefs, cultural or religious considerations, and consultation with medical professionals. Considering the available information, values, and preferences, weighing the potential benefits against the risks is essential.
Parents are recommended to discuss the matter with healthcare providers thoroughly, consider the potential benefits and risks involved, and make an informed decision that aligns with their values and the best interests of the child.
Evidence studies
Study 1-
The recently released draft of federal guidelines from U.S. health officials indicates that the benefits of male circumcision outweigh the risks. This long-awaited evidence study, conducted by the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, supports the recommendation of medically performed circumcision due to its potential to reduce the risk of HIV and other sexually transmitted infections.
The decreasing rate of male circumcision in the United States prompted the need to counsel parents on the procedure’s benefits and risks. According to the CDC, from 1979 to 2010, the national rate of newborn circumcision declined by 10 percent to 58 percent. The procedure involves removing the foreskin around the tip of the penis and has been a subject of intense debate.
Studies conducted in Africa have shown that circumcision can assist in minimizing the virus spread responsible for AIDS. The draft guidelines suggest that healthcare providers should inform all uncircumcised males engaging in heterosexual sex about the partial efficacy of circumcision in reducing the risk of acquiring HIV and some STIs, along with the potential harms associated with the procedure.
The overall drawbacks of circumcision are low, with minor bleeding and inflammation being the most common complications. The draft recommendations are open for a 45-day public comment period and external peer review, allowing input from various stakeholders. The CDC developed these guidelines based on a thorough review of available evidence and extensive consultation with experts in HIV prevention and related fields.
Study -2
The American Academy of Pediatrics recently issued a statement asserting that the benefits of circumcision outweigh the risks based on scientific evidence. While they don’t recommend routine circumcision, they believe parents should decide in consultation with their child’s doctor. The AAP represents over 60,000 pediatricians in the United States and Canada.
Scientific research has shown various health benefits associated with circumcision. It reduces the risk of acquiring HIV, genital herpes, human papillomavirus, syphilis, and penile cancer over a lifetime. Additionally, it lowers the risk of cervical cancer in sexual partners and urinary tract infections in the first year of life. The AAP also mentioned that the health benefits are substantial enough to warrant insurance coverage.
However, critics argue that circumcision is not medically necessary and may result in complications and pain. The procedure carries the rare risks of bleeding and swelling. Nevertheless, the AAP emphasizes that there are safe and effective methods to minimize discomfort during circumcision, and it should only be performed on stable, healthy infants.
Ultimately, the decision to circumcise should consider individual family preferences, religious beliefs, and cultural values. Parents are encouraged to discuss the benefits and risks with their doctor, preferably during pregnancy, and to determine whether insurance covers the procedure. The American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists supports parents’ access to circumcision services.
Conclusion
The debate on whether the benefits of circumcision outweigh the risks is complex and subjective. While circumcision has associated potential health benefits, such as reducing the risk of certain infections, it poses risks, including complications and ethical concerns. Ultimately, individuals should decide, considering medical advice and personal beliefs.