Circumcision is the removal of the foreskin or ring of tissue that covers the head of the penis. The physicians of Hill Country OB/Gyn do not perform circumcisions.
The decision to circumcise your infant son is a complex one, requiring thought regarding cultural, religious, medical and personal preferences. Followers of the some faiths perform circumcisions for religious reasons. Circumcisions became popular in many countries because it was thought it may help prevent sexually transmitted infections. Circumcision has not become a common practice in many countries. In 1997, the American Academy of Pediatrics issued a statement on circumcision, clarifying that the procedure carried small potential benefits and risks that the parents needed to consider. In general, circumcision does not prevent sexually transmitted infections. Although it does protect against cancer of the penis, good hygiene offers equal protection against this rare condition.
Like any surgical procedure, circumcision may cause complication (less than 1%). These might include infection, bleeding, scarring and various injuries to the penis. The procedure causes some pain that can be minimized by using a local anesthetic to block the nerves of the foreskin. You may have to pay the cost of the procedure if it is considered an elective procedure with your insurance.
The decision to circumcise is for the parent to decide as the risks and benefits are too small to make it a medical decision. Some parents take into consideration if the father is circumcised or not when making this decision. Gather information from your medical caregivers and other parents when making this choice.
These physicians offer hospital or office circumcision. Please call their offices with questions.