As a new parent of an infant, the number of decisions you must make can be overwhelming and maybe even a little scary.
While newborn circumcision is a common decision, it is a choice to make. Should you circumcise your newborn baby? What are the reasons to go through with this procedure?
You can look below at the frequently asked questions from other parents at our circumcision clinic in case you have any of the same questions in mind.
Please call us anytime as well for more information.
What are the reasons people choose to circumcise their baby?
An infant circumcision is often undertaken for cultural and religious reasons, and there can be health benefits as well. Our clients circumcise their babies in accordance with their traditions, and many other families simply choose to carry on a family tradition or seek the health benefits that may come from male circumcision.
Are their medical reasons to choose circumcision?
Many doctors believe in the health benefits of circumcision. A 2012 American Academy of Pediatrics study concluded that the medical benefits of circumcision outweigh the decision to not circumcise. This may be why many parents opt for newborn circumcision over waiting until a male is an adult.
What is Pollock Technique™ circumcision?
There are a variety of techniques for circumcision. Common methods include the Gomco circumcision clamp, the Mogen circumcision clamp, and the Plastibell circumcision device. The Pollock Technique™ is a circumcision procedure using the Mogen clamp and long-lasting local anesthetics. Baby circumcision with the Pollock Technique™ is completed in just minutes with minimal discomfort.
What Is used to prevent pain for the baby during the procedure?
At our clinic, a combination of local anaesthetics is used to numb the circumcision site and prevent pain during and after the procedure. This includes baby acetaminophen before the procedure, an anaesthetic cream to numb the skin, and a pain block injection to provide comfort for procedure, and for hours after.
What Is the best time for a baby to be circumcised?
In most cases, a baby boy is circumcised as an infant. Infant circumcision is typically done anytime in the first four months of a baby’s life. The earlier the circumcision is done on a baby the easier it is. Our clinic offers virtually painless circumcision at any age.
Do we have to pay for baby circumcision?
Routine infant circumcision is not covered by provincial health insurance programs in Canada – except in Manitoba where it is covered for infants up to four weeks of age. OHIP does not cover infant circumcision, and the same is true in NS, NB, NL, PEI, QC, SK, AB, and BC.
How long does it take for the circumcision to heal completely?
Healing occurs in several stages, and most newborns show signs of healing by one week. Your son will have a check up appointment a few days after circumcision so that the doctor can make sure that healing is proceeding as expected.
Why do some parents choose not to have their infant sons circumcised?
Some parents choose not to circumcise their sons because they are worried about the pain the baby feels or the risks involved. Others believe it is a decision a boy should make himself when he is older. However, recovery may take longer when circumcision is done on an older child or adult. The risk of complications also is increased when circumcision is done later.
When should circumcision not be done?
Circumcision should only be done when the newborn is stable and healthy. Reasons to delay circumcision include if the baby is born very early and if the baby has certain problems with his blood or a family history of bleeding disorders.
What are the health benefits associated with circumcision?
Circumcision reduces the bacteria that can live under the foreskin. This includes bacteria that can cause urinary tract infections or, in adults, STIs. Circumcised infants appear to have less risk of urinary tract infections than uncircumcised infants during the first year of life. Some research shows that circumcision may decrease the risk of a man getting human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) from an infected female partner.
Is a doctor’s referral necessary?
No, you can book directly with our circumcision clinic. Approval of both parents is required.
What post-procedure support is provided?
After the circumcision, our doctor will follow up to check up on your baby’s progress and answer any questions that the parents may have. A follow-up appointment and printed aftercare instructions will be given to families as part of our circumcision protocols.
While no new parent wants to imagine doing anything to their baby that might cause discomfort, newborn circumcision does not need to be a difficult choice.
It can be a quick and simple, virtually painless procedure – with pros and cons that will be unique to you and your family.
For more information about Pollock Technique™ circumcision please read full detail on our website or contact us today.
Gentle Procedures Toronto
77 Queensway West, Suite 310
Mississauga, Ontario, L5B 1B7
Call us : 416-551-7070 | CONTACT US
Fax : 416-551-7171
Phone Hours of Operation
Monday through Friday, 9 AM – 5 PM
