CIRCUMCISION ADVICE

 

What you need to know

The General Medical Council recognises that male circumcision can be carried out for religious and cultural reasons.

 

• Although most boys recover well with no problems, like all operations, circumcision carries a risk of harm
• The NHS does not fund male circumcision unless there is a medical reason.

Age It is recommended your son’s circumcision is done when he is as young as possible. This advice is for boys under one year of age.

 

Consent Both parents and/or carers with parental responsibility must give consent before the operation happens. Consent means you want to have your son circumcised, and that the operation and potential risks have been explained to you. Don’t be afraid to ask questions. Good practitioners will be happy to answer. You must feel confident in who you use. Your son should be in good health to be circumcised. Tell the practitioner about any health problems or family’s health history.

 

Clean & Sterile The place should be clean, and sterile instruments should be used, to reduce the risk of infection.

 

Being present during the circumcision. If you want to be with your son when the circumcision is performed you need to talk about this with the person who will be doing the circumcision. Some, not all, practitioners are happy for you to be present, so discuss this when you first contact them.

Pain Management Having a circumcision may be painful for your son. You should be told how the pain will be managed during the circumcision, and how to reduce his pain at home afterwards.

After Care Your son should be kept on the premises for at least 30 minutes after bleeding from circumcision has stopped. You should leave with detailed information about how to look after your son, when and where to seek help, plus a contact number in case of any concerns. If you are worried about your son after the circumcision, you should contact the practitioner. If you cannot get in touch with them, or are not happy with their advice, you should take your son to your local A&E.

 

Complaints If you are happy about the service you received, first speak to the practitioner that did the circumcision. If you are not happy with their response you can contact your local NHS PALS service.

Please contact your local GP for operation advice and appointments.