Many view the foreskin as an important part of the human body that is necessary for the protection of the penis. If the foreskin is removed, the exposed end of the penis may become irritated and cause the opening of the penis to become too small. This may cause difficulty in urination and may need to be surgically corrected. Many also believe that the removal of the foreskin can desensitize the tip of the penis, causing a decrease in sexual pleasure later in life. Boys can be taught proper hygiene that can lower their chances of getting infections, cancer of the penis, and sexually transmitted diseases.
Some parents worry about their child feeling pain.
They may have an increased heart rate and blood pressure. These symptoms usually disappear within 24 hours. They may also cry loudly, however, they usually calm down shortly after the surgery. A local anesthetic can be injected to produce a penile nerve block and has been shown to lower pain and stress in infants. Also helpful are having the infant suck on a sugar solution and using topical anesthetic ointments.