Many of the questions in this section, were asked by parents on various online forums and I have done my best to provide insightful answers for them.

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What is a mohel?

A mohel is a person trained in the Jewish tradition to perform the ritual of brit milah, also known as circumcision, on a newborn boy. The mohel is typically a rabbi, but can also be a trained lay person. The ceremony is typically performed on the eighth day after a boy's birth and is an important ritual in the Jewish faith.

 

How did circumcision start ?

Circumcision, the surgical removal of the foreskin of the penis, is a practice that has been performed by various cultures and religions for thousands of years. 

The origins of circumcision are mentioned in the Bible as a covenant between God and Abraham the forefather of the Jews. Abraham is believed to have lived 3500 years ago. Abraham's great grandson Joseph is believed to have become a ruler in ancient Egypt, and most introduced the practice of circumcision to the Egyptians. 

It is also believed to have been performed by ancient cultures in Africa, the Middle East, and parts of Asia as a rite of passage, a symbol of masculinity, or a mark of cleanliness. 

Today in the United States most newborns are circumcised after birth. Circumcision was introduced after the second world war, where doctors realized that soldiers who suffered from infections of the penile area were uncircumcised. The American Board of Pediatrics have stated that preventive health benefits of elective circumcision of male newborns outweigh the risks of the procedure. Benefits include significant reductions in the risk of urinary tract infection in the first year of life and, subsequently, in the risk of heterosexual acquisition of HIV and the transmission of other sexually transmitted infections.
 

How is circumcision done on babies?

Circumcision on newborn babies is typically done within the first few days of life, either in the hospital or at a clinic. The procedure is usually performed by a pediatrician or a urologist.

The baby is typically given a local anesthetic to numb the area, and then the foreskin is separated from the head of the penis using a special instrument called a Gomco clamp or a Plastibell device. Once the foreskin is separated, it is trimmed away from the penis. The procedure typically takes between 5 and 10 minutes.

After the procedure, the area will be covered with a dressing and the baby will be given a pacifier or sugar water to help soothe any discomfort. The baby will be given pain medication if required. The healing process takes about 7-10 days, and the parents are instructed to keep the area clean and dry.

It is important to note that the American Academy of Pediatrics states that the health benefits of newborn male circumcision outweigh the risks, but the benefits are not great enough to recommend universal newborn circumcision. The final decision should be made after discussing the benefits and risks with a pediatrician.

 

Which circumcision method is best?

It is unclear which technique is least painful. However the Mogen shield enables the procedure to be done in a very swift way and the baby does not need to be strapped down to a board for the procedure.  Due to the Mogen technique being so quick, the baby does not experience those feelings of abandonment due to the amount of time needed to be strapped by a board. A Mohel who uses the Mogen technique will also most likely allow the parents to be present during the procedure, thereby minimizing the amount of trauma the baby would experience.  
 

Which circumcision method is best?

There are several methods for performing circumcision, and the choice of method will depend on the individual's personal preferences, cultural or religious practices, and the surgeon's experience and expertise. The most common methods include the Gomco clamp, the Plastibell device, and the Mogen clamp.

The Gomco clamp method involves using a bell-shaped metal device to crush the foreskin against a metal plate and then cutting it off. The Plastibell device involves placing a plastic ring around the foreskin and then cutting off the excess. The Mogen clamp method involves using a metal clamp to crush and cut off the foreskin in one step.

All these methods are considered safe and effective, and have similar success rates. However, the Gomco and Plastibell methods are considered to be less painful than the Mogen clamp method, and the Plastibell method is less likely to cause bleeding.

It is important to note that all of these methods are done under sterile conditions and are considered safe. The choice of method would depend on the surgeon's expertise, and the patient's preference. Parents should consult with the pediatrician to make an informed decision.
 

Which circumcision is best for babies?

The choice of method for circumcision in newborn babies will depend on the individual's personal preferences, cultural or religious practices, and the surgeon's experience and expertise. However, all methods are considered safe and effective when performed by a qualified medical professional.

The Plastibell device is a common method used for newborns as it is considered less painful than the Gomco or Mogen clamp method and less likely to cause bleeding. This method is performed by placing a plastic ring around the foreskin and then cutting off the excess. The ring will fall off on its own within a week or two, and the healing process typically takes 7-10 days.

Another method is the Gomco Clamp, it involves using a bell-shaped metal device to crush the foreskin against a metal plate and then cutting it off.

Another method of circumcision is the Mogen shield, most commonly performed by a Mohel. The Mohel will pull the foreskin upwards, and then slide the Mogen shield in, to separate the foreskin from the glans. The foreskin will then be removed by a scalpel known as an Izmel. 

It's important to note that the American Academy of Pediatrics states that the health benefits of newborn male circumcision outweigh the risks, but the benefits are not great enough to recommend universal newborn circumcision. The final decision should be made after discussing the benefits and risks with a pediatrician.
 

Which circumcision is safest ?

All methods of circumcision, when performed by a qualified medical professional, are considered safe. However, some methods may be associated with a lower risk of complications than others.

One of the safest methods is the Plastibell device, which is commonly used for newborns. It is considered less painful than other methods and less likely to cause bleeding. The healing process typically takes 7-10 days.

Another safe method is the Gomco Clamp, which involves using a bell-shaped metal device to crush the foreskin against a metal plate and then cutting it off. This method is considered safe and effective, and has a low rate of complications.

The Mogen clamp method is also considered safe and effective, but it may be associated with a higher risk of bleeding compared to the Plastibell device or Gomco clamp method.

It is important to note that all of these methods are done under sterile conditions and are considered safe. The choice of method would depend on the surgeon's expertise, and the patient's preference. Parents should consult with the pediatrician to make an informed decision.

One of the safest methods of circumcision is the Mogen, typically practiced by a Mohel. The Mogen is a shield-like sheath wherein the foreskin is slid and then removed with a scalpel. Due to the expertise of a Mohel, the Mogen technique is one of the safest techniques for newborn circumcision.

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Which circumcision method is least painful?

Circumcision is a surgical procedure and can be associated with some pain and discomfort. However, the level of pain can vary depending on the method used, the age of the person, and their individual pain tolerance.

The Plastibell device method is considered to be one of the least painful methods of circumcision, particularly for newborns. It is performed by placing a plastic ring around the foreskin and then cutting off the excess. The ring will fall off on its own within a week or two, and the healing process typically takes 7-10 days.

Another method considered less painful for newborns is the Gomco clamp method, which involves using a bell-shaped metal device to crush the foreskin against a metal plate and then cutting it off.

It is important to note that pain management during circumcision is important, and it is done by giving local anesthetics which will numb part of the area and make the procedure less painful. Parents should discuss the pain management options with the pediatrician or Mohel before the procedure.

One of the least painful methods of circumcision is the Mogen technique, typically practiced by an experienced Mohel. The foreskin is slid into the Mogen, shield-like sheath and then removed with a scalpel. Due to the expertise of a Mohel, the Mogen technique is one of the quickest  techniques for newborn circumcision, thereby minimizing excessive pain.

 

Circumcision which religion?

Circumcision is a practice that has been performed by various cultures and religions for thousands of years.

In the Jewish religion, circumcision is performed on the 8th day of a baby boy's life as a rite of passage and a symbol of the covenant between God and the Jewish people. This practice is known as "brit milah" or "bris."

In the Islamic religion, circumcision is considered to be a sunnah, or a tradition of the Prophet Muhammad, and is typically performed on boys between the ages of 6 and 13.

In Christianity, there is no specific commandment to perform circumcision, but most Christian denominations perform the procedure as a matter of tradition, personal preference or wishing to walk in the ways of Christ. 

In the United States and other countries, circumcision is also performed for non-religious reasons, such as for medical reasons or personal preference.

It's important to note that the practice of circumcision varies across different cultures and religions and the decision should be made after discussing the benefits and risks with a pediatrician and considering cultural and religious beliefs.
 

Will circumcision increase size?

Circumcision is the surgical removal of the foreskin of the penis, it does not increase the size of the penis. The foreskin is a retractable fold of skin that covers the head (glans) of the penis. When the foreskin is removed, the head of the penis is exposed. This can give the appearance of the penis being larger, but it does not change the size of the penis itself.

It's important to note that some people may falsely believe that circumcision can increase the size of penis, but that is not true. The size of the penis is determined by genetic factors and cannot be changed by circumcision or any other surgical procedure.

Additionally, circumcision is not considered a cosmetic surgery, and should only be done for medical reasons, cultural or religious practices, or personal preference after discussing the benefits and risks with a pediatrician or a urologist.

 

Will circumcision cure balanitis?

Circumcision may be recommended as a treatment option for some cases of balanitis, which is an inflammation of the head of the penis (glans). Balanitis can be caused by a variety of factors, including poor hygiene, fungal or bacterial infections, or skin conditions such as eczema or psoriasis.

Circumcision can be effective in preventing recurrent cases of balanitis caused by phimosis, a condition where the foreskin is too tight to be retracted, and poor hygiene can be a factor. However, not all cases of balanitis are caused by phimosis, and there are other causes such as infections, allergies, or skin conditions that need to be treated accordingly.

It's important to note that circumcision should only be considered as a treatment option after consulting with a pediatrician or urologist, as they would be able to evaluate the cause of the balanitis and recommend the appropriate treatment.

Circumcision alone may not be enough to treat balanitis caused by other factors such as infection, allergies or skin conditions. Antibiotics or antifungal medications may be required in addition to circumcision for treating the underlying cause.
 

Will circumcision hurt my baby?

Circumcision is a surgical procedure and can be associated with some pain and discomfort for the baby. However, the level of pain can vary depending on the method used, the age of the baby, and their individual pain tolerance.

To minimize the pain, most circumcision procedures are done with the use of local anesthesia or cream, which numbs the area and makes the procedure mostly pain-free. This can include a dorsal penile block, which numbs the top of the penis, or a ring block, which numbs the entire penis. Additionally, after the procedure, pain management options such as acetaminophen or ibuprofen can be used to manage pain and discomfort.

It's important to note that while the procedure is considered safe and many babies will recover quickly, some may experience pain, bleeding or infection. Parents should discuss the pain management options with the pediatrician or the Mohel before the procedure, and also should follow the instructions of the doctor for the post-procedure care to ensure the best healing process.

It's also important to note that the American Academy of Pediatrics states that the health benefits of newborn male circumcision outweigh the risks, but the benefits are not great enough to recommend universal newborn circumcision. The final decision should be made after discussing the benefits and risks with a pediatrician and considering cultural and religious beliefs.

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Will circumcision help with premature ejaculation?

Circumcision is the surgical removal of the foreskin of the penis and it does not necessarily have a direct impact on premature ejaculation (PE). PE is a sexual dysfunction that is characterized by a man ejaculating too quickly during sexual intercourse.

There are some studies that suggest that circumcision may lead to a slight increase in time to ejaculation, but these studies have not been conclusive and more research is needed to confirm the effect of circumcision on PE. The causes of PE are multifactorial and include psychological, biological and lifestyle factors. 

Although circumcision may not be directly impacted by circumcision, many males who circumcise as an act of connection to religion, find that they are able to focus their time during sex towards increasing their partner's pleasure. By focusing on the partner and their pleasure one is able to significantly decrease the speed of ejaculation.

It is important to note that if you are experiencing premature ejaculation, it's best to consult with a urologist or a sexual health specialist to determine the underlying causes and appropriate treatment options. They may recommend therapy, medication, or other treatments that can help you manage the condition.

Circumcision is not considered a treatment option for premature ejaculation and should only be done for medical reasons, cultural or religious practices, or personal preference after discussing the benefits and risks with a pediatrician or a urologist.

 

Will circumcision hurt?

Circumcision is the surgical removal of the foreskin of the penis and it does not have a direct impact on premature ejaculation (PE). PE is a sexual dysfunction that is characterized by a man ejaculating too quickly during sexual intercourse.

There are some studies that suggest that circumcision may lead to a slight increase in time to ejaculation, but these studies have not been conclusive and more research is needed to confirm the effect of circumcision on PE. The causes of PE are multifactorial and include psychological, biological and lifestyle factors.

It is important to note that if you are experiencing premature ejaculation, it's best to consult with a urologist or a sexual health specialist to determine the underlying causes and appropriate treatment options. They may recommend therapy, medication, or other treatments that can help you manage the condition.

Circumcision is not considered a treatment option for premature ejaculation and should only be done for medical reasons, cultural or religious practices, or personal preference after discussing the benefits and risks with a pediatrician or a urologist.

 

Will circumcision reduce pleasure?

There is ongoing debate and conflicting research on whether circumcision affects sexual pleasure. Some studies have suggested that circumcision may slightly decrease sexual pleasure, while others have found no significant difference.

The foreskin is a highly sensitive and erogenous part of the penis that contains a high concentration of nerve endings. Its removal can reduce the sensitivity of the glans and therefore, lead to a slight decrease in sexual pleasure for some men. However, it's important to note that sexual pleasure is a complex and multifactorial experience that is influenced by various factors such as emotional, psychological and physical factors.

On the other hand, some studies have suggested that circumcised men may have an increased sexual pleasure and satisfaction, as the lack of foreskin can make the glans less sensitive to friction and more sensitive to light touch.

It's important to note that the decision to undergo circumcision should be made after discussing the benefits and risks with a pediatrician or a urologist, and taking into consideration cultural, religious, or personal preference. It's also important to keep in mind that sexual pleasure is a complex issue, and the circumcised or not circumcised status is not the only factor that can affect it.

 

When circumcision newborn?

Circumcision of newborn males is typically performed within the first few days of life, either in the hospital or at a clinic. The procedure is usually performed by a pediatrician or a urologist.

There are different schools of thought on the timing of circumcision, some recommend to perform it within the first week of life, while others recommend it to be done after day eight but before three months. 

It is important to note that the earlier the procedure is done, the less developed the baby's nervous system is, and therefore, the less pain and discomfort the baby will experience. Due to the lack of blood clotting capability during the first six days of a baby's life, many parents opt to perform their son's circumcision after day eight. 

It's also important to note that the American Academy of Pediatrics states that the health benefits of newborn male circumcision outweigh the risks, but the benefits are not great enough to recommend universal newborn circumcision. The final decision should be made after discussing the benefits and risks with a pediatrician and considering cultural and religious beliefs.

 

When is circumcision done?

Circumcision is typically performed on males, it can be done at any age, but it is most commonly performed on newborns. The procedure can also be done on older boys and adult men, but the recovery time may be longer and the procedure may be more complicated.

Circumcision on newborns is typically done within the first few days of life, either in the hospital or at a clinic. The procedure is usually performed by a pediatrician or a urologist.

Circumcision on older boys and adult men is typically done on an outpatient basis, and the procedure is usually performed by a urologist. Recovery time may vary depending on the individual's age and overall health, but it generally takes a week to 10 days for the wound to heal.

It's important to note that the American Academy of Pediatrics states that the health benefits of newborn male circumcision outweigh the risks, but the benefits are not great enough to recommend universal newborn circumcision. The final decision should be made after discussing the benefits and risks with a pediatrician and considering cultural and religious beliefs.

Many parents will choose to wait till day eight or after to keep in line with the biblical commandment of circumcising on the eighth day. Parents will also wait till after day in order to avoid giving the required Vitamin K shot which tends to be excessively potent than what is required by the baby.  

 

When did circumcision start?

Circumcision is a practice that has been performed by various cultures and religions for thousands of years. The origins of the practice are not well-known, but it is believed to have originated in Africa and the Middle East. Circumcision was likely performed as a rite of passage into adulthood, as a symbol of religious or cultural identity, or as a means of promoting hygiene and health.

In ancient Egypt, circumcision was performed as a rite of passage for boys and as a symbol of religious devotion. It was also practiced among the ancient Greeks and Romans, although it was not as widespread as in other cultures.

In the Jewish religion, circumcision has been performed for over 3,000 years as a sign of the covenant between God and the Jewish people. The practice is known as "brit milah" or "bris" and is performed on the 8th day of a baby boy's life.

Circumcision was also widely practiced among different indigenous cultures in Africa, Australia and the Americas, as well as among certain Muslim and African tribes.

In modern times, the practice of circumcision has become less common in some cultures and countries, but it continues to be widely practiced in others, particularly in the United States, due to the immense health benefits. Circumcision is widely practiced in Israel and most muslim countries. 

 

When will circumcision heal ?

The healing process after circumcision can vary depending on the individual's age, overall health, and the method used.

In newborns, the healing process typically takes 7-10 days. The wound should be kept clean and dry, and parents should follow the instructions of the pediatrician or the surgeon for the post-procedure care.

In older boys and adult men, the healing process may take slightly longer, typically around 10-14 days. The wound should be kept clean and dry, and the individual should avoid sexual activity and heavy physical activity until the wound has fully healed.

It's important to note that some mild redness, swelling, and discomfort are common after circumcision, but these symptoms should subside within a few days. If there is any signs of infection such as fever, increasing redness, swelling or pus, it's important to contact the doctor immediately.

It's important to follow the instructions of the doctor for the post-procedure care to ensure the best healing process, and to keep an eye on the wound for any signs of complications.

 

When should circumcision be done?

The decision of when to perform circumcision should be made after discussing the benefits and risks with a pediatrician or a urologist, and taking into consideration cultural, religious, or personal preference. Many parents choose to wait till after day eight in order to circumcise so that the baby’s blood clotting capability is at its peak. 

In the case of newborns, the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) recommends that the procedure be performed within the first few days of life if it's going to be done. It is considered to be less painful and less likely to cause bleeding than in older infants or adults. 

For older boys and adult men, the procedure can be done at any time, but recovery time may be longer and the procedure may be more complicated.

It's important to note that the AAP states that the health benefits of newborn male circumcision outweigh the risks, but the benefits are not great enough to recommend universal newborn circumcision. The final decision should be made after discussing the benefits and risks with a pediatrician and considering cultural and religious beliefs.

 

When does circumcision adhesions occur?

Circumcision adhesions are a condition that can occur after circumcision when the remaining foreskin or the inner surface of the foreskin sticks to the head of the penis (glans). This can happen when the remaining foreskin is not cleaned properly after the circumcision, or if the wound heals too quickly and does not separate from the glans.

Adhesions usually occur within the first few weeks after circumcision, but they can occur later as well. In most cases, adhesions will resolve on their own over time. However, if they do not, it is important to see a pediatrician or a urologist.

The treatment for adhesions involves gently separating the adhesions with a sterile instrument and cleaning the area with saline solution. The pediatrician or urologist may also recommend the use of a topical steroid cream to reduce inflammation and encourage separation.

It's important to follow the instructions of the doctor for the post-procedure care and to be vigilant on the wound healing process, as adhesions are more likely to occur if the wound is not cleaned properly or if the baby is not kept dry.