Surgery
Circumcision
Circumcision removes the foreskin covering the head of the penis, done for medical reasons or, in some cultures and religions, for other reasons.
Quick answer
Circumcision: what it is, why it's done and what happens
Circumcision is the surgical removal of the foreskin. On the NHS it is usually done for specific medical problems, while non-medical circumcision is generally carried out privately.
- Why it is done: Medical reasons include a tight foreskin that cannot be pulled back (phimosis), recurrent infections (balanitis), scarring, or a foreskin that traps and cannot return over the head (paraphimosis).
- What happens: In adults it is usually done under general or local anaesthetic; in children under general anaesthetic.
What it is
Circumcision is the surgical removal of the foreskin. On the NHS it is usually done for specific medical problems, while non-medical circumcision is generally carried out privately.
Why it is done
Medical reasons include a tight foreskin that cannot be pulled back (phimosis), recurrent infections (balanitis), scarring, or a foreskin that traps and cannot return over the head (paraphimosis).
What happens
In adults it is usually done under general or local anaesthetic; in children under general anaesthetic. The foreskin is removed and the edges stitched with dissolvable stitches, typically taking under an hour.
Recovery
Soreness, swelling and bruising settle over one to two weeks. Loose clothing, pain relief and keeping the area clean help. Sexual activity is usually avoided for several weeks in adults.
Good to know
Risks and things to consider
Risks include bleeding, infection, and reduced or altered sensation. As with any surgery there are anaesthetic risks. For medical circumcision, less drastic treatments are sometimes tried first.
Education and reference only. This explains the procedure in general terms and is not medical advice. Your own care, risks and recovery will be explained by the team looking after you.
Answers
Circumcision: frequently asked questions
Is circumcision available on the NHS?
It is generally offered only for specific medical reasons, such as a tight or infected foreskin that has not responded to other treatment. Circumcision for religious or cultural reasons is usually arranged privately.
How long does recovery take?
Soreness and swelling usually settle within one to two weeks. Adults are typically advised to avoid sexual activity for several weeks while healing is complete.
Related
Other surgery
Sources
Where this is drawn from
- NHS — Tests and treatments
- NICE — procedure and treatment guidance
- British Association of Urological Surgeons / relevant professional body
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