The procedure is usually performed without anesthesia. The option to use local anesthesia should be carefully considered because of the complications associated with its use. The benefit of prophylactic neonatal circumcision remains controversial. However, it has been shown that it reduces the incidence of urinary tract infections, penile cancer, and sexually transmitted diseases. Circumcision is not advised in a sick infant, a premature baby, or one with family history of bleeding problems or congenital anomalies.
Circumcision is indicated in phimosis, paraphimosis, and balanoposthitis.
Paraphimosis is a condition in which the snugly fitting foreskin with a partially scarred tip is retracted over the glans and becomes trapped behind it. This is a medical emergency. If your baby is circumcised, after the procedure a light dressing with petroleum jelly is placed over the head of the penis. Usually the dressing gets wet when the baby urinates and comes off. Do not try to pull off the dressing if it is still dry, as it might bleed.