The AAP's brochure on circumcision for parents The American Academy of Pediatrics has issued a brochure on circumcision, based on its 1999 task force report, that is filled with misleading statements and pro-circumcision bias. The actual brochure can be found at the Medem medical library site. All text in red on this page is the author's commentary or added emphasis. In the average male, the foreskin is the end of the penis.
Scientific studies show some medical benefits of circumcision.
Parents may want their sons circumcised for religious, social, and cultural reasons. Since circumcision is not essential to a child's health, parents should choose what is best for their child by looking at the benefits and risks. This brochure answers common questions you may have about circumcision. Use this as a guide to help you decide what is best for your baby boy. At birth, boys have skin that covers the end of the penis, called the foreskin.