Things to Consider About Circumcision
Circumcision, which is accepted as the first step taken by boys into adulthood as a religious tradition that has no medical obligation, is a surgical procedure that has many benefits, especially its effect in reducing the risk of urinary tract infections. In the circumcision process, the foreskin, which covers the upper part of the penis and is called the prepuce, is surgically cut to a certain length and shape, and the tip of the penis is exposed. Circumcision, which is a very beneficial procedure in terms of general hygiene, must be performed by experts under appropriate hygienic conditions and with the right methods. Although it is a simple surgical procedure, if it is not performed correctly, it can cause serious problems that affect the child’s entire life.
When Should Circumcision Be Done?
Circumcision surgery can be performed at any age. However, it is not recommended by experts as it may cause psychological trauma in children between the ages of 2-6. Children in this age group are in the period of identity development and experience adaptation problems. The child may develop a feeling of losing his penis. In addition, this is a period when the child is dependent on the mother. From age 7 to adolescence, children enter a period of stagnation. According to experts, the most appropriate circumcision is the first 20 days after birth or after the age of 6.
When Should Circumcision Be Performed in Babies?
Newborn circumcision can be performed because the healing process and care are easier and it does not cause psychological trauma. A newborn baby struggles with many important problems in the first days of its life. Problems such as sucking, swallowing, breathing problems, jaundice, and weight loss are problems that may be encountered in newborns. These conditions begin to decrease after the first week. It also takes a week for the mother to recover. Carrying out the baby’s post-circumcision care by the mother increases mother-baby communication. Considering all these, it would be more appropriate to leave the circumcision procedure to 7 days or later after the birth of the baby.
Who Should Perform Circumcision?
In our country, circumcision surgery can be performed by physicians, health officers and healthcare professionals known as circumcision doctors. However, it is more appropriate to be performed by urologists, pediatric surgeons or general surgeons. Performing circumcision in the operating room, if possible under hospital conditions, minimizes complications. Surgical procedures, which can be performed under local or general anesthesia, have started to be performed only under general anesthesia in recent years. General anesthesia protects the child psychologically and shortens the recovery process.
Care After Circumcision
After circumcision, a medication set consisting of painkillers syrup, pills, antibiotics, baticon and gauze is used. Dressing should be done by a doctor or health officer. During this process, crusts, swelling and redness may occur on the head of the penis. The most important point during post-circumcision care is to keep the wound clean and away from external factors as much as possible. For this reason, specially designed circumcision pants may be beneficial. It is important for the child to get through this process with a comfortable mental state after a period of about a week. At the end of a week, the child can continue his daily life.
