Circumcision: an overview of the procedure
Circumcision is a surgical procedure in which the skin that folds over the tip of the penis is removed. This small portion of skin is called the foreskin. The foreskin is a continuation of the skin that covers the rest of the penis.
In most cases, circumcision is performed during the first month of life. It’s much more uncommon for circumcision to be performed on adults.
Here are some of the most common reasons for circumcision:
- Religion: Circumcision is routinely performed in certain religions, particularly the Jewish religion. For those who practice the Jewish faith, circumcision is usually performed on the eighth day of life. Circumcision is not required in Islam, but it is encouraged. Islam does not dictate a specific age when circumcision must be performed.
- Health: certain medical conditions, such as phimosis (when the foreskin is too tight and can’t be pulled over the head of the penis), may require circumcision.
- Hygiene: Some parents believe circumcision will make it easier for their child to maintain proper genital hygiene throughout their lives.
- Personal preference: Parents may make this decision because the procedure has been traditionally performed in their families, regardless of religion