Newborn - Circumcision

The decision to circumcise your boy involves many personal and cultural differences. Circumcised boys have a slightly lower rate of urinary tract infections and penile cancer, two conditions that are already very rare in the male population. In the Virginia, Maryland, and Washington, DC, areas, circumcisions in the hospital are performed by your obstetrician. After the procedure, the area will be covered with a gauze pad and petroleum jelly to aid in healing and prevent irritation. We recommend applying the gauze and petroleum jelly for 48-72 hours after the circumcision. The penis can become quite swollen after the procedure, but this will gradually subside after several days. During the healing process you may also notice a rim of yellowish tissue around the base of the circumcised area. This is called granulation tissue and is a sign of normal healing. This color will also fade as the area heals completely. The area can be gently cleaned with soap and water after it is completely healed.

If you decide not to circumcise your son, there is no need to retract the foreskin in the newborn period. The foreskin usually cannot be completely retracted until 6-7 years of age.

« Back