What is circumcision in newborns?

Circumcision in Newborns
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How is circumcision done?

Circumcision is usually done by a doctor at a clinic, in the hospital, or at an outpatient surgery center. During the procedure:

  • The baby is placed on a firm surface. Velcro straps are wrapped around the baby's arms and legs to keep the baby very still.
  • The penis is cleaned.
  • The surgical area is often numbed with a local anesthetic while the baby stays awake. A baby who is age 1 month or older may need general anesthesia. Talk with your doctor about the best way to control pain in your child.
  • A sterile circumcision clamp or device is placed over the head of the penis.
  • The foreskin is removed using a sterile scalpel or scissors.

After circumcision in infants: When to call

Call your doctor now or seek immediate medical care if:

  • Your baby has a fever over 100.4°F.
  • Your baby is extremely fussy or irritable, has a high-pitched cry, or refuses to eat.
  • Your baby does not have a wet diaper within 12 hours after the circumcision.
  • You find a spot of bleeding larger than a 2-inch circle from the incision.
  • Your baby has signs of infection. Signs may include severe swelling; redness; a red streak on the shaft of the penis; or a thick, yellow discharge.

Watch closely for changes in your child's health, and be sure to contact your doctor if:

  • A Plastibell device was used for the circumcision and the ring has not fallen off after 10 to 12 days.

Should My Son Be Circumcised?

How can you care for your child after circumcision?

Activity

  • Let your baby rest as much as possible. Sleeping will help with recovery.
  • You can give your baby a sponge bath the day after surgery. Ask your doctor when it is okay to give your baby a bath.

Medicines

  • Your doctor will tell you if and when your child can restart any medicines. The doctor will also give you instructions about your child taking any new medicines.
  • Your doctor may recommend giving your baby acetaminophen (Tylenol) to help with pain after the procedure. Be safe with medicines. Give your child medicines exactly as prescribed. Call your doctor if you think your child is having a problem with a medicine.
  • Do not give your child two or more pain medicines at the same time unless the doctor told you to. Many pain medicines have acetaminophen, which is Tylenol. Too much acetaminophen (Tylenol) can be harmful.

Circumcision care

  • Always wash your hands before and after touching the circumcision area.
  • Gently wash your baby's penis with plain, warm water after each diaper change, and pat it dry. Do not use soap. Don't use hydrogen peroxide or alcohol. They can slow healing.
  • Do not try to remove the film that forms on the penis. The film will go away on its own.
  • Put plenty of petroleum jelly (such as Vaseline) on the circumcision area during each diaper change. This will prevent your baby's penis from sticking to the diaper while it heals.
  • Fasten your baby's diapers loosely so that there is less pressure on the penis while it heals.

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The content above contains general health information provided by Healthwise, Incorporated, and reviewed by its medical experts. This content should not replace the advice of your healthcare provider. Not all treatments or services described are offered as services by us. For recommended treatments, please consult your healthcare provider.