A Doula’s Perspective
As a birth doula in Los Angeles, I have the privilege of supporting families through one of the most transformative periods of their lives. Part of my role is to provide evidence-based information on various decisions that parents face, one of which is whether or not to circumcise their newborn son. Circumcision is a deeply personal choice, influenced by cultural, religious, medical, and individual factors. Here, I aim to present a balanced view of the pros and cons to help parents make an informed decision that aligns with their values and beliefs.
Understanding Circumcision
Circumcision is the surgical removal of the foreskin, the tissue covering the head of the penis. It’s a practice that dates back thousands of years and is performed for a variety of reasons, including religious, cultural, and medical.
The Pros of Circumcision
- Hygiene: One of the primary arguments for circumcision is that it can make it easier to maintain genital hygiene. Without a foreskin, there is less accumulation of smegma, which can harbor bacteria and cause infections if not cleaned properly.
- Reduced Risk of Infections: Studies have shown that circumcision can reduce the risk of urinary tract infections (UTIs) in infants. Though UTIs are relatively uncommon, they can be more severe in young children.
- Lower Risk of Certain STIs: Research indicates that circumcision can lower the risk of certain sexually transmitted infections (STIs), including HIV, HPV, and herpes. This is particularly significant in areas with high rates of these infections.
- Prevention of Medical Conditions: Circumcision can prevent some conditions such as phimosis (when the foreskin cannot be retracted), paraphimosis (when the retracted foreskin cannot return to its original position), and balanitis (inflammation of the glans).
- Cultural and Religious Importance: For many families, circumcision is an important cultural or religious ritual. It can provide a sense of identity and belonging within a community.
The Cons of Circumcision
- Pain and Stress: Although the procedure is relatively quick, it can be painful and stressful for the newborn. While local anesthesia can reduce pain, some discomfort is inevitable.
- Complications: As with any surgical procedure, there are risks of complications such as bleeding, infection, and in rare cases, more severe outcomes. Although complications are uncommon, they are a consideration.
- Loss of Sensation: Some argue that circumcision reduces sensitivity in the penis, which can affect sexual pleasure later in life. The foreskin contains nerve endings that contribute to sexual sensation.
- Ethical and Autonomy Concerns: Critics of circumcision argue that it is ethically questionable to perform a non-therapeutic procedure on a non-consenting infant. They believe that the decision should be left to the individual when they are old enough to consent.
- Cultural Shifts: Attitudes towards circumcision are changing in many parts of the world. In some regions, the practice is becoming less common, and there is growing support for leaving the decision to the individual later in life.
Choosing Not to Circumcise
If you decide not to circumcise your son, it’s essential to understand the importance of proper genital care to avoid complications. One recommendation is to use cloth diapers instead of disposable ones. Cloth diapers can be gentler on a baby’s sensitive skin and reduce the risk of irritation and infections. Here are some benefits of using cloth diapers:
- Reduced Chemical Exposure: Cloth diapers are free from the chemicals and fragrances found in many disposable diapers, which can irritate sensitive skin.
- Breathability: Cloth diapers are often more breathable than disposables, allowing better airflow and reducing the likelihood of rashes.
- Cost-Effectiveness: While there is an upfront cost, cloth diapers can be more economical over time compared to disposable diapers.
- Environmental Impact: Cloth diapers are reusable and reduce the environmental waste associated with disposable diapers.
- Comfort: Many parents find that cloth diapers are softer and more comfortable for their babies, which can be particularly beneficial for uncircumcised boys.
Proper hygiene practices are crucial regardless of your diaper choice. Be sure to clean the genital area gently and thoroughly during diaper changes and baths, but avoid forcibly retracting the foreskin, as it can cause pain and injury.
Side Note: If you are concerned about the extra work involved with cloth diapers, many services in the Los Angeles area provide convenient diaper cleaning pick-up and drop-off. These services can help make cloth diapering more manageable and stress-free for busy parents. If you are interested in using a diaper service feel free to visit our local Diaper Cleaning Partner!
Making the Decision
Ultimately, the decision to circumcise is a personal one that parents must make based on their own values, beliefs, and the specific circumstances of their child. As a doula, my goal is to provide comprehensive information and support without judgment. It’s important to discuss this decision with your healthcare provider, who can offer medical insights tailored to your baby’s health.
If you choose circumcision, ensure that it is performed by a skilled and experienced professional in a safe, sterile environment. If you decide against it, educate yourself on proper genital hygiene and consider using cloth diapers to help reduce potential complications.
Circumcision is a complex and nuanced topic with valid points on both sides of the debate. As you navigate this decision, remember that there is no universally right or wrong choice—only what is right for your family. Trust your instincts, seek reliable information, and don’t hesitate to reach out to professionals, like your doula, for support along the way. Your role as a parent is to make informed, loving choices for your child, and whatever decision you make will be made out of care and concern for their well-being.
Contact me for personalized support and guidance through your childbirth journey.
Wishing you the best on your journey!
All the best,
Los Angeles Birth Doula
