Male baby circumcision is a procedure that removes the foreskin from the penis. It is a common surgery that some parents and caregivers choose for their baby, often for religious or cultural reasons.
Sometimes, doctors recommend circumcision to treat a health condition, such as phimosis. This is when it is not possible to draw back the foreskin fully, which can make it more difficult to keep the penis clean.
However, in many cases, circumcision is an elective procedure and a personal choice of parents and caregivers.
Some refer to female genital mutilation (FGM) as “female circumcision.” However, these procedures are very different. FGM often involves removing tissues that interfere with the natural functions of the female body, which carries significant short- and long-term risks.
Read on to learn more about what baby circumcision is, when babies undergo the procedure, the potential benefits and risks, what to expect, and how much it costs.