The last 2 questions offered a list of reasons for deciding for or against circumcision, and respondents were asked to check all that applied as well as indicate the most important reason. Circumcision rates for parent Results Fifty-five surveys were completed. No parent refused to participate, but 3 surveys were returned uncompleted. Respondents named 21 different physicians or nurse midwives as their providers, representing 7 different clinics. Decision timing versus discussion timing.
Most parents appear to make the circumcision decision early.
Of the 6 infants whose providers recommended circumcision, all were circumcised, whereas of the 2 infants whose providers recommended against circumcision, whereas of the 2 infants whose providers recommended against circumcision only 1 was not. Reasons for the Decision Table 1 illustrates the relative ranking of reasons for choosing circumcision. Patients were allowed to check all applicable reasons and then asked to choose the most important, if possible. Consistent with past studies, hygiene and preventing the procedure at a later age were the most important factors for parents, with other social concerns being less important. In contrast to past studies, however, medical benefits were reported more often as reasons for circumcision.