Circumcision of your Baby
Medically reviewed by Drugs.com. Last updated on May 6, 2024.
AMBULATORY CARE:
What you need to know about a circumcision:
A circumcision is a procedure to remove the foreskin of your baby's penis. The foreskin is the fold of skin that covers the tip of the penis. A circumcision is usually done within 2 days of birth. The circumcision may be delayed if your baby is premature or has other health concerns.
How your baby will be prepared for a circumcision:
Numbing cream may be put on his penis 30 to 90 minutes before the procedure. Numbing medicine may also be given as a shot at the base of his penis. Your baby may be given a pacifier dipped in sugar water for comfort. You can swaddle your baby before his procedure to soothe and calm him. You can also feed your baby to help keep him calm. He may be given acetaminophen to decrease pain.
What will happen during your baby's circumcision:
Your baby's healthcare provider will use a tool to remove the foreskin. Your baby's provider will put petroleum jelly and gauze on the area. This will help keep the area from getting irritated from his diaper and urine. It will also keep the gauze from sticking to the area.
What to expect after your baby's circumcision:
Providers will swaddle your baby and watch him closely after the procedure. He will be returned to you as soon as possible. You can feed your baby to help soothe and calm him after the procedure. Your baby's provider will tell you when you can take your baby home. Your baby's penis may be red and swollen for 1 or 2 days. It usually takes 7 to 10 days for your baby's penis to heal. Your baby's penis may have a small amount of yellow discharge or crust. This is normal.
Risks of a circumcision:
Your baby may bleed more than expected or get an infection. Your baby's foreskin may be cut too short or not short enough. Your baby may have a thick scar around his penis when it is healed. Damage may be done to your baby's penis, urethra, or nerves. Your baby may need another procedure to fix the damage.
Seek care immediately if:
- The tip of your baby's penis becomes cold, darker in color, or pale.
Call your baby's doctor if:
- Your baby has more than a quarter-sized blood stain in his diaper.
- Your baby has a fever.
- Your baby's penis has increased swelling, redness, or pus coming out.
- Your baby is urinating very little or not at all.
- You have questions or concerns about your baby's procedure or care.
Medicines:
Your baby may need acetaminophen within the first 24 hours to decrease pain. Tell the provider if your baby is allergic to any medicine. Give your baby's medicine as directed. Contact your baby's provider if you think the medicine is not working as expected. Keep a current list of the medicines, vitamins, and herbs your baby takes. Include the amounts, and when, how, and why they are taken. Bring the list or the medicines in their containers to follow-up visits. Carry your baby's medicine list with you in case of an emergency.
Care for the circumcision area:
For each diaper change, do the following as directed:
- Rinse the area with clean, warm water. Do not use wipes or scrub the area.
- Let the area air dry. Do not use a towel to dry the area.
- Check your baby's penis every day for signs of infection. Look for pus, or increased redness or swelling.
- Put on petroleum jelly and a clean gauze when your baby's skin is dry. This will help decrease irritation.
Follow up with your baby's doctor as directed:
Write down your questions so you remember to ask them during your visits.
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The above information is an educational aid only. It is not intended as medical advice for individual conditions or treatments. Talk to your doctor, nurse or pharmacist before following any medical regimen to see if it is safe and effective for you.
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