Why do boys get circumcised?

Boys are usually circumcised to solve the problem of excessive foreskin or phimosis, which may be caused by physiological or pathological factors. The main reasons include preventing infection, improving hygiene, treating phimosis, reducing the risk of disease, and improving comfort. Circumcision is a common treatment and needs to be evaluated by a doctor.

1. Prevent infection

Excessive foreskin may increase the accumulation of smegma, causing bacterial growth and causing balanitis or balanitis. Recurrent infections may cause redness, pain, and discharge. Pay attention to daily cleaning. In severe cases, you can use erythromycin ointment, mupirocin ointment and other topical antibiotics as directed by your doctor. The wound needs to be kept dry after surgery to avoid secondary infection.

2. Improve hygiene

Foreskin covering the glans may affect the cleaning effect, and a long-term moist environment can easily induce odor and inflammation. Exposing the glans after surgery is more convenient for daily cleaning and reduces dirt residue. It is recommended to wash the vulva with warm water every day and avoid using harsh lotions. During the postoperative recovery period, you need to use iodophor solution to disinfect the wound as directed by your doctor.

3. Treatment of phimosis

Phimosis refers to the inability of the foreskin to evert out to expose the glans, which may cause difficulty urinating or painful intercourse. Congenital phimosis is more common in children, and acquired phimosis may result in scarring due to repeated infections. Mild cases can be improved by manual dilation, while severe cases require surgical intervention. Compound polymyxin B ointment can be used for a short period of time after surgery to prevent adhesions.

4. Reduce disease risk

Excessive foreskin is related to the risk of penile cancer and HPV infection, and its removal can reduce the potential of pathogens. Your partner's reproductive health may also benefit. You should avoid strenuous exercise and wear loose underwear after surgery. If abnormal bleeding or fever occurs, timely review is required to rule out complications.

5. Improve comfort

A tight foreskin may cause painful erections or discomfort from daily friction. After surgery, the keratinization of the glans will gradually adapt to external stimulation. During the recovery period, you can take oral ibuprofen sustained-release capsules as directed by your doctor to relieve pain and avoid scratching the wound. Sexual intercourse is prohibited for 1-2 weeks after surgery to prevent wound dehiscence.

Postoperative care requires keeping the area clean and dry, gently rinsing with saline every day, and avoiding soaking in the bathtub. Wear pure cotton breathable underwear to reduce friction, and no cycling or heavy physical activity is allowed for 2 weeks after surgery. Eat a light diet and consume more vegetables and fruits rich in vitamin C to promote healing. If there is persistent redness, swelling, effusion or fever, you should return to the hospital for examination immediately. People who have not undergone surgery should pay attention to opening the foreskin and cleaning it every day. Children need parents to help develop cleaning habits.