What Is Circumcision?

Circumcision is a surgical procedure in which the foreskin is permanently removed from the head, or glans, of the penis. All four specialized structures of the foreskin are removed; the purposes they serve are lost. That means the outer and inner layers of the foreskin, the frenulum, and the ridged band are permanently cut away. The procedure is typically performed on newborns but may also be performed on older children and consenting adults for personal or religious reasons. Circumcision is not medically necessary.

Watch "The Real Reason You're Cicumcised"

How Is Circumcision Performed?

  • In the most common procedure, the foreskin is opened, natural adhesions are removed in the case of infants and young children, and the foreskin is separated from the glans. After that, a circumcision device may be placed, and then the foreskin is cut off. The frenulum, which is highly sensitive, is often partially or fully removed in circumcision. The surgery is often performed without pain medication. It is important to note that the foreskin does not naturally retract from the head of the penis until around 6 years of age up to the onset of puberty and sometimes after. This makes opening the foreskin and removal of adhesions more invasive.

  • Types of Circumcision Procedures

    Three common methods of circumcision are theGomco clamp, the Plastibell device, and the Mogen clamp. All three pinch the foreskin to cut off circulation and prevent bleeding while the doctor cuts the foreskin. The surgery lasts 15-30 minutes. Specifically, the Gomco Clamps works by inserting a a hollow bell portion on top of the exposed glans. The foreskin is rolled over the bell, and is severed by clamping it between the exterior portion of the device and the bell beneath the foreskin.

What is the long term loss resulting from circumcision?

  • Keritinization

    The penis glans hardens with rougher, thicker skin, decreasing sensitivity even further. This happens because the glans is constantly exposed to abrasive materials like underwear.

  • Psychological

    Psychological effects can be lifelong. Attitudes toward the body, one’s sexuality, dissatisfaction with sexual pleasure, strong sense of having been invaded physically.

  • Immunity

    Loss of immune system benefits and anti-bacterial agents that keep the glans clean.

  • Permanence

    Removal of the foreskin, healthy tissue designed by nature to protect the glans, is permanent

  • Sensitivity & Pleasure

    The inner foreskin, packed with nerves, stimulates the glans and provides sexual pleasure . Circumcision permanently denies men of these experiences. Without the natural lubrication created between the inner foreskin and glans, painful sex can result for both partners. The frenulum, its nerve endings and vascular structures are destroyed.

Do The Benefits Outweigh The Losses?

Both short and long term complications result from circumcision. At the same time, there are known natural functions and benefits of the foreskin. Both beg the question—are there any potential benefits of circumcision that justify this permanent loss? Read further in the Discussion Page and decide for yourself.
What about ethics and the child’s right to bodily integrity? The child’s ability to give consent? The harms and risks of any surgical procedure must not outweigh the potential benefits. Has the medical community normalized circumcision, and does it present sufficient information to make an informed decision?

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