Circumcision or circumcision is the process of cutting the skin that covers the tip of the penis. Circumcision aims to open the head of the penis so that it is easy to clean and reduces the risk of infection in the reproductive system. There is no right age standard for circumcision, circumcision can be done as a baby, child or even as an adult.
From a medical perspective, circumcision is better done earlier because healing will be faster. If circumcision is performed when he is still a baby, there is not much movement so there is no need for general anesthesia.
Before circumcision, the child's parents are given an explanation of the risks and benefits of circumcision in children. Parents must convey certain conditions to their child, such as allergies, taking medication or other health conditions. The circumcision procedure requires anesthesia, parents will discuss with the doctor to plan the type of anesthesia that will be used on the child. After circumcision, the child can go straight home without needing to be hospitalized. Next, the child will have regular check-ups with a doctor so that his recovery can be monitored properly.
Benefits of Circumcision (Circumcision) in Children
Initially circumcision was carried out because of certain cultures or religions. However, after much research, it turns out that circumcision has many benefits, including:
- Faster healing . Circumcision in babies or children will heal wounds more quickly than circumcision in adults because adults do more activities and move around.
- Reduces the risk of developing urinary tract infections . Urinary tract infections that occur in children will trigger kidney damage. Circumcising children will reduce that risk.
- Reduces the risk of developing penile cancer .
- Reduces the risk of contracting sexually transmitted diseases . One of the sexually transmitted infections that can be prevented by circumcision is HIV, herpes and syphilis.
Circumcision/Circumcision Method in Children
The conventional circumcision method is a method that has been used for a long time and is still widely used today. This method is done by cutting the foreskin directly with a tool called an electric cauter. Electric cautery is a heated metal plate, the metal tip is electrified which becomes hot and red so it can be used to cut the foreskin. After cutting, the skin will be stitched using thread.
Child Care After Circumcision
After circumcision surgery, it may take some time to completely heal. Your child's penis will be sore and inflamed for several days after surgery. Pain medication and ointments can be used for several weeks until the child is completely healed. Parents don't need to worry if they find blood from the incision on their child's penis, this is normal and will stop by itself. When bathing your child, clean the penis area using warm water. If dirt enters the penis, do not use chemical substances or products. Do not scratch the penis during the recovery period, wear loose clothing so that the penis does not rub against the fabric and cause pain.
If your child's penis experiences bleeding that doesn't stop and is in severe pain after surgery, take him to the hospital immediately and consult your doctor to get the right treatment and prevent it from getting worse.
To determine the right circumcision method for your child, you can consult with a pediatric surgeon. The doctor will carry out a medical examination and recommend a circumcision method that is suitable for the child.
Article written by dr. Yohanes Arif Eko N, Sp.BA (Pediatric Surgery Specialist at EMC Alam Sutera Hospital).