Circumcision is the removal of the foreskin of the penis by a physician or member of the clergy. It is the parents’ decision to circumcise or not to circumcise their child. The decision may be based on reasons of religious beliefs, social or cultural issues. It is most commonly performed on newborns but may also be done at a later age. However, a newborn needs to be healthy to be circumcised. For this reason, premature infants are frequently not circumcised or are circumcised at a later age. Circumcision is not a medically necessary procedure.

According to the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP), the practice of circumcision is uncommon in Asia, Latin America and most of Europe. It is also uncommon in Canada. It is much more common in the United States. The AAP reports that, within America, circumcision is more common among whites than among blacks or Hispanics.

Circumcision does cause pain. However, local anesthesia is safe for infants and effective in reducing the pain associated with the procedure. Older boys require general anesthesia during circumcision. The procedure is associated with some complications, and the risk of complications is unknown. According to the AAP, excessive bleeding is the most common complication. Other potential complications include infection, problems with the urethra and scarring.