I put this here because it could get nasty.


But I was wondering why people choose to not circumcise their sons. Other than they do not want their baby to have surgery or be cut or hurt......are there any other reasons? OK maybe no men in the family has been....


What irritates me most is that parents do not pull up that skin and clean down in there. It gets nasty. It smells. It gets infected. Why would parents choose to not circumcise and then not clean properly :banghead I feel sorry for these kids.

My brother wasn't circumsied but my Mom keeps him very clean and he know's how to clean himself.

My brother wasn't circumsied but my Mom keeps him very clean and he know's how to clean himself.


Was there a reason? Family tradition?

They just didn't want it done.

I'd have it done if I have a boy... I just like it better that way. :P Plus easier to clean hehe. :D

Trent is not circumcised. it is an unneed procedure. the only reason for it is for looks. not one medically reason. you also are not suppose to pull it back. it naturally retracts itself. keeping it clean is not hard. wash it like you do your whole body. soap and water.

while you wonder why i did not get it done, i wonder why people remove skin from their sons. it does not make sense to put a child through pain because of the locker room (meaning worrying about what other kids think or say) 40% of boys are now leaving the hospital intact. look out! natural peni is taking over!!:hehe

My older boys were preemies, and the hospital wouldnt do theirs, because they were so small. We had the option to put them on the wait list at Balboa to have it done, but being elective, the wait was 2-4 yrs at that time :shock

My little man is done, as is George.

All 3 of my boys are circumcised. I left the decision to my hubby. I gave him all the literature, for and against, and he decided he wanted it done. I personally didn't feel I comfortable making the decision because I don't have those "parts".

My husband is, and he was more comfortable having his boys the same!

If we have a boy then I want it done. It's just easier to take care of.

Yes I realize more and more people are not having it done and there is no medical reason to do it either. Many hospitals are not doing them at all on newborns. You have to wait for the dr to do it at in their office. Really it is no big deal. My mom is an OB nurse and I've seen quite a few of them where the baby does not even cry. So the whole "I dont want him to hurt for that 5 seconds" is silly to me. I also realize that lots of countries do not do it and its only something we started doing not all that long ago.


But, the skin does need to be cleaned under in some way. I've had way too many boys in daycare recently that look like they'd rather the penis fall off than have to deal with it inflamed. When you have your son circumcised you usually get a lesson on how to care for it. I think the same needs to go for people who choose not to. Poor little boys red swollen penis :(

Trent is not circumcised. it is an unneed procedure. the only reason for it is for looks. not one medically reason. you also are not suppose to pull it back. it naturally retracts itself. keeping it clean is not hard. wash it like you do your whole body. soap and water.

while you wonder why i did not get it done, i wonder why people remove skin from their sons. it does not make sense to put a child through pain because of the locker room (meaning worrying about what other kids think or say) 40% of boys are now leaving the hospital intact. look out! natural peni is taking over!!:hehe

I agree!

Granted my son was circ'd because at the time I was an ignorant mom who didn't do any research. DH & I both agree that if we had researched it or could do it all again, DS would not be cut....even though DH is.

I let John decide. I figured I'm not a man, don't have a penis so who am I to go against what John wanted. He didn't tell me how to deliver, labor, handle my pregnancies, etc. I don't know. :dunno Maybe that wasn't the wisest ways to go about it but I figured I have no experience with one so how much weight does my opinion really hold against someone who does. We haven't had a problem with him having it done so, so far I guess we're all good.

This is one topic that I am very passioned about. I will never "validate" someones excuse of getting it done. I am sorry but that is how I feel. While many may think that i am irresponisble or a bad parent for the decisions i made, this is one i take pride in. (see blinkies)

for the moms to be or if you plan on having a baby, i really hope you do all your research. http://www.cirp.org/ is a great website that gives you all the info you need.


on a sidenote~ just because i dont understand women allowing this to be done to their sons or "validating" it does not mean i dont care for you. Debra, for instance, had it done but i still enjoy talking to her.;)

(let the bashing begin!:ohno )

I've had way too many boys in daycare recently that look like they'd rather the penis fall off than have to deal with it inflamed.

I would definately say something to the parents! :(

All 3 of my boys are circumcised. I left the decision to my hubby.
My husband is, and he was more comfortable having his boys the same!

:thumbsup I'm gonna let my husband decide that when we have a son. I don't think it should be the woman's place to decide what happens down there unless she's a single mom.

I don't think it should be the woman's place to decide what happens down there unless she's a single mom.

I believe that it is the Mothers place to decide what happens to their babies. are you saying that it is not the dads place to decide about getting their daughters ears pierced because they dont wear earrings?

This is one topic that I am very passioned about. I will never "validate" someones excuse of getting it done. I am sorry but that is how I feel. While many may think that i am irresponisble or a bad parent for the decisions i made, this is one i take pride in. (see blinkies)

for the moms to be or if you plan on having a baby, i really hope you do all your research. http://www.cirp.org/ is a great website that gives you all the info you need.


on a sidenote~ just because i dont understand women allowing this to be done to their sons or "validating" it does not mean i dont care for you. Debra, for instance, had it done but i still enjoy talking to her.;)

(let the bashing begin!:ohno )

My sister didnt have her son done. He wound up with a cyst that became infected... she was told it was from NOT retracting the forskin... (I dont know if I believe that or not but its irrelivant) long story short at age 5 the poor child was completely traumatized by being circumsized and KNOWING they were removing parts of his penis. It then got a further infection. The poor kid held his pee for 16 hours and they had to take him back and have him catheterized for 2 days, for the infection to clear up. Had she done it in the beginning, he wouldnt have remembered. But then again to each their own.

Second story. My son Hagen, was born at 29 wks, with VATER syndrome. One of his symptoms was being born with an imperfered anus. Short explaination he had no anus. His colon ended and was attached to a double urethra. Circumcision was deemed necessary with all the things he was going through, surgeries, etc.

I think there is always a validation to some things that some people deem a "choice", or that some people are passionate about. Never say never.

Well i read in the bible that Jesus got circumsized. Hm that really makes no difference to ME- but it would to alot of other people. Errrrrr if i have a son, it'll be done. Giovanni isn't circumsized and its bloody annoying lol. Circumsized looks better, is easier to clean, and you can give handjobs without worrying that you are pulling the skin too roughly.

Ofcourse the last one isn't why i would want my son's getting done- its more like a dream of mine that giovanni would get circumsized.. but i love him anyways.

side note from http://circumstitions.com/AAP-care.html

Foreskin retraction should never be forced. While the foreskin is still attached to the glans of the penis, do not try to pull it back, especially in an infant. Forcing the foreskin to retract before it is ready may harm the penis and cause pain, bleeding, and tears in the skin.

While many may think that i am irresponisble or a bad parent for the decisions i made, this is one i take pride in. (see blinkies)

for the moms to be or if you plan on having a baby, i really hope you do all your research. http://www.cirp.org/ is a great website that gives you all the info you need.

All I am gonna say to this is.....#1 you can find TONS of info FOR circing just as you can find tons of info for NOT circing. So, to me, a website from someone choosing to not circ isn't an unbiased opinion...Just as a website from me about the pros of circing you wouldnt find unbiased...

And 2...As far as your blinkie goes...I didnt mess with perfection. My son is 110% perfect in every way, shape and form. Even with being circ'd ;)

I wont look down on you for your decision but dont look down on me for mine :D

side note from http://circumstitions.com/AAP-care.html

I understand that some places say that. But her pediatrician said otherwise. What do you do? Obviously she researches things now... but most people are sheep :D (I said that yesterday ;) ) My sister was a sheep too :shrug

I'm fine with either but we had Hayden done. I read articles and have heard horror stories both ways and I asked for Jason's input. He wanted it done and so it was. I don't feel the need to validate myself or be validated ;).

:ohsnap

Ok my last post was light hearted and i was trying to make this thread abit easier.. but um here are my serious thoughts ok.

I think circumsizing, is something the parents have to think about. There is no point shoving your beliefs in their faces because it is their decision. When it comes down to it- there are pros and cons in both situations. If you don't think there are any cons in keeping the foreskin intact- think about when he is older.. it COULD become an inconvience.

As for hurting the baby for a minute or so- this is just like piercing a new borns ears- is it right, is it wrong? Some people say yes, some people say no. Fact of the matter is, it dosn't mean you are a bad person if you say yes, and it dosn't mean your a bad person if you say no.

It is the parents decision, and there are health benefits in both. You don't need to read a book to know that- you just need to think about the situation yourself and im quite sure you will come up with a few.. in BOTH ways.

We won't circ if we ever have a boy. We don't think it's a needed procedure.


And just like Kara said- I don't feel the need to validate myself. I don't really care if you all think it's gross. Not every uncirc penis has been infected, etc.

But, the skin does need to be cleaned under in some way. I've had way too many boys in daycare recently that look like they'd rather the penis fall off than have to deal with it inflamed. When you have your son circumcised you usually get a lesson on how to care for it. I think the same needs to go for people who choose not to. Poor little boys red swollen penis :(

Hmm...This is interesting. When I was pregnant, I did my research. I was told you did NOT have to retract the skin if you do not circumsize. I know some parents do retract and some don't. I know the ones who didn't, their penis's didn't become infected (I personally know this person). Something else COULD possibly be wrong with it...

I believe that it is the Mothers place to decide what happens to their babies. are you saying that it is not the dads place to decide about getting their daughters ears pierced because they dont wear earrings?

I believe that yes a mother should have a voice when it comes to circumcising their sons. But I do believe that the male input should be weighed more heavily. Heck they have either been through it or not.

As for the ear piercing, well that's not entirely true today because I know many men that have worn or do wear earrings. In fact, before joining the Navy my husband had his ear pierced.

That said, I don't think you are a bad mother for choosing not to circumcise. You have made an informed decision that you deem best for your family and I applaud your conviction and decision! Being informed is always the key to any decision!

All I am gonna say to this is.....#1 you can find TONS of info FOR circing just as you can find tons of info for NOT circing. So, to me, a website from someone choosing to not circ isn't an unbiased opinion...Just as a website from me about the pros of circing you wouldnt find unbiased...

And 2...As far as your blinkie goes...I didnt mess with perfection. My son is 110% perfect in every way, shape and form. Even with being circ'd ;)

I wont look down on you for your decision but dont look down on me for mine :D


:agree

and I especially wont consider a website making smart ass comments a valid one.

OK now my turn. If I have a son he will be circumcised b/c my husband is and I personally want it done. Regardless of anyone else and their beliefs. Some docs will tell you to pull the skin back to clean others will not. I've gotten diffterent directions on things in my life and Ella's. Everyone will say something diffrent. Do what your doctor tells you too not what I or someone else says you should. I think this is a 100% parental choice. And no not just my husband will decide we will decide together weather I have a penis or not. We are both the parents. One of my best friends husband isn't circed and they have to use alot of lub and if he pulls out too fast it could really harm him (this is what I've been told) why would I want to put my son through that (this is my opinion no bashing please) it's easier for him to clean and to be clean and it's better looking. I feel it should be done and that's my opinion and I'm sticking too it!! :D please no bashing just adding my 2 cents!!

One of my best friends husband isn't circed and they have to use alot of lub and if he pulls out too fast it could really harm him (this is what I've been told) why would I want to put my son through that (this is my opinion no bashing please) it's easier for him to clean and to be clean and it's better looking.

Just wanted to comment, that again, this is a special case. Not all uncirc's have to do this.

Seriously, uncirc. are just like regular penis's. Just w/ the extra skin, which when erect, you can't even tell. A baby boy will eventually have his retract.

Hmm...This is interesting. When I was pregnant, I did my research. I was told you did NOT have to retract the skin if you do not circumsize. I know some parents do retract and some don't. I know the ones who didn't, their penis's didn't become infected (I personally know this person). Something else COULD possibly be wrong with it...


When they show up to daycare with shit literally under the skin and it all red and them crying, holding their diapers because it hurts then yes, I assume thier pain is due to not cleaning under the skin. And I'm talking about 2-3 year olds not newborns. By age 2 the skin is usually pretty loose and needs a good rinse in the tub. Just plain water would do wonders. Oh and then there are the parents who smother the penis and under the skin with diaper rash cream, which just dries out the sensitive skin under there and it cracks and gets bloody......:sick seriously, parents do choose to not need a lesson too.

When they show up to daycare with shit literally under the skin and it all red and them crying, holding their diapers because it hurts then yes, I assume thier pain is due to not cleaning under the skin. And I'm talking about 2-3 year olds not newborns. By age 2 the skin is usually pretty loose and needs a good rinse in the tub. Just plain water would do wonders. Oh and then there are the parents who smother the penis and under the skin with diaper rash cream, which just dries out the sensitive skin under there and it cracks and gets bloody......:sick seriously, parents do choose to not need a lesson too.

Gross...than their just stupid for letting it get like that :no That's sad...

My turn!

Junior wasn't circumsized as a baby b/c I chose not to. The reasons are mine but so people understand, it was because I was young and scared and didn't want the responsibility of taking care of it on top of caring for a baby I didn't know how to care for 100%. You want me to lie? I won't. The whole idea scared me at the age of barely 16. :yes

I later had him circumsized, he was 5. I felt real shitty for waiting. It was not a happy experience for him. DH was a great help but I knew he was in more pain at the age of 5 than he would have been as a baby. I chose to circumsize b/c IMO, I feel they look neater and stay cleaner. My opinion, ;).

Debra, for instance, had it done but i still enjoy talking to her.;)


Oh you better not stop talking to me or I'll hunt your booty down! :devil You are one of my favorite people here....so inteliigent, passionate & not afraid to stand up for what you believe in! Very cool in my book! :)

I don't think it should be the woman's place to decide what happens down there unless she's a single mom.


You do know you'd be cleaning taht area, right? I can guarantee about 90% of the cleaning will be done by you :wink The Mother, in most circumstances, is the main one who takes care of the baby more than the Dad, so I believe women definetely should have a say. YOu will know your baby better than the Father.

My husband would definetely have a say, but I wouldn't leave the choice completely up to him...and for those that do, that's your choice, but to say it shouldn't be a Mother's place is odd. I don't want to say ignorant, bc thats your opinion, but it's just an odd thing to say since you will be doing more hands on w/ the baby than the Dad.

All I am gonna say to this is.....#1 you can find TONS of info FOR circing just as you can find tons of info for NOT circing. So, to me, a website from someone choosing to not circ isn't an unbiased opinion...Just as a website from me about the pros of circing you wouldnt find unbiased...

And 2...As far as your blinkie goes...I didnt mess with perfection. My son is 110% perfect in every way, shape and form. Even with being circ'd ;)

I wont look down on you for your decision but dont look down on me for mine :D


:yeehaw :yeehaw
Very well said Kristi!! My son is circumsized and to me he's perfect! So, don't criticize the parents who don't have their sons circumsized.

My son is circumsized and I think I made the best decision for my son. After he had it done, he came back to me totally calm and asleep. The doctor even told me that he didn't cry once. Oh my, what torture :rolleyes ! Yes, you do need to retract the foreskin to clean it and keep it dry. My mom is a nurse, and with Bill being a Corpsman, he has also said the same thing. Jill, the links you tend to find tend to always be one sided. There are many pros and cons and you are making it sound like the right and only way is to NOT be circumsized. How ignorant is that? I have two little boys in my daycare who were not circumsized and they had infections constantly, because the parents never retracted the foreskin. I even confronted the parents on this, and they told me that they don't retract it :no . That's a cause for infection right there.


Granted my son was circ'd because at the time I was an ignorant mom who didn't do any research.
Debra, so because I or other women have our sons circumsized, does that mean that we are ignorant???

Ok....obviously doctors, nurses, people, whoever are going to say different things.

I have been told, read, whatever that you retract...than I've read, been told, whatever that you don't retract.

You need to keep the area clean, regardless of what you do. Those parents must not be using even water in that area.

Could also be that poop is getting in there and it's not being cleaned properly. Who knows...but you can't tell a mother who doesn't circ her boy that she NEEDS to retract the penis. You can tell her she needs to clean it, but retracting and what not seems to be another debateable issue.

Jill doesn't retract and seemingly has had no issues.

it's just about keeping the area clean. Use soap & water...even just water.

And I really hate when people say that being circumsized is "cleaner"...but I know its your opinion so I'll keep my mouth shut :D

Jill, the links you tend to find tend to always be one sided. There are many pros and cons and you are making it sound like the right and only way is to NOT be circumsized. How ignorant is that? I

umm......yeah my links are one-sided!:rolleyes that is point of debate. backing up your beliefs and opinions. so not only am i irresponsible or negligence towards trent but also ignorant. Sarah or anyone else,show me a site where it backs up circumcision AND it is okay to retract a penis.

Both of my boys are circumcised and if I have another he will be too. They both slept through it. and I am very happy with our decision.

Debra, so because I or other women have our sons circumsized, does that mean that we are ignorant???

WOAH! Where exactly did I say anyone else was ignorant for their choices?? I said I was ignorant because I made a decision about my son's body without being informed. I didn't mention any names but my own. :shrug So please do not try to put words in my mouth!

Debra, not to speak for you, but Sarah- I think Debra was implying that she felt ignorant b/c she didn't do her research and cicurc her son when now after doing the research, she wouldn't of made that same choice & she won't for a future son. Ignorant as in- she just did what was the "normal" thing to do instead of making her own informative choice.

umm......yeah my links are one-sided!:rolleyes that is point of debate. backing up your beliefs and opinions. so not only am i irresponsible or negligence towards trent but also ignorant. Sarah or anyone else,show me a site where it backs up circumcision AND it is okay to retract a penis.
Well here is a site about the pros AND cons of circing...Not just 1 way
http://www.aap.org/pubed/ZZZJZMEMH4C.htm?&sub_cat=1

We chose to do so because we wanted it that way!

umm......yeah my links are one-sided!:rolleyes that is point of debate. backing up your beliefs and opinions. so not only am i irresponsible or negligence towards trent but also ignorant. Sarah or anyone else,show me a site where it backs up circumcision AND it is okay to retract a penis.

Sure thing Jill. I forgot, you know everything :rolleyes


What if an uncircumcised boy has phimosis, paraphimosis, or balanoposthitis?

Boys who are not circumcised as newborns may later have circumcision for the treatment of phimosis, paraphimosis, or balanoposthitis. When done after the newborn period, circumcision is considerably more complicated.

What is meatitis?

Meatitis is inflammation of the opening (the meatus) of the penis. This opening is formally called the external urethral meatus.

What is the relationship between circumcision and meatitis?

Meatitis is more common in boys who have been circumcised. This stands to reason since, in circumcised boys the urethral meatus is more exposed and likely to be chaffed than in boys that were not circumcised. There is no evidence that meatitis leads to narrowing (stenosis) of the urethral meatus or to other serious problems.

Is it easier to care for the penis circumcised or uncircumsised?

The circumsised penis is generally easier to keep clean. An uncircumcised boy should be taught to clean his penis with care. Cleaning of the penis is done by gently, not forcibly, retracting the foreskin. The foreskin should be retracted only to the point where resistance is met. Full retraction of the foreskin may not be possible until the age of 3 or more.

What is the relationship between circumcision and urinary tract infections?

The incidence of urinary tract infections in male infants appears to be lower when circumcision is done in the newborn period. It was first reported in 1982 that males predominate among infants with urinary tract infections (whereas females predominate later in life) and that about 95% of the infected infant boys had not been circumcised. Studies in US Army hospitals involving more than 200,000 infant boys confirmed greater than a tenfold increase in urinary tract infections in uncircumcised male infants compared to those who had been circumcised.

What might this relationship between circumcision and urinary tract infections mean?

Circumcision prevents the growth of bacteria under the foreskin and this, in turn, protects male infants against urinary tract infection. The high incidence of urinary tract infections in uncircumcised boys has also been found to be accompanied by an increased incidence of other significant infections such as bacteremia (bacterial infection of the bloodstream) and meningitis (infection of the covering of the brain). The protective effect of circumcision may thus extend to a number of infectious diseases.

What is the relationship between circumcision and sexually transmitted diseases?

There is a higher risk of gonorrhea and inflammation of the urethra (the tube that carries the urine from the bladder outside) in uncircumcised men. It has also been reported that other sexually transmitted diseases (such as chancroid, syphilis, human papillomavirus, and herpes simplex virus type 2 infection) are more frequent in uncircumcised men.

What might this connection between circumcision and sexually transmitted diseases mean?

Circumcision prevents the growth under the foreskin of the agents that cause sexually transmitted diseases. Removal of the foreskin may provide some measure of protection from these diseases to males and their mates.

What is the correlation between sexually transmitted diseases and cancer of the cervix?

There is a strong connection between sexually transmitted diseases and cancer of the cervix. Human papillomavirus types 16 and 18 are strongly associated with cancer of the cervix. Herpes simplex virus type 2 has also been associated with cervical cancer.

The strongest predisposing factors in cervical cancer are a history of intercourse at an early age and multiple sexual partners. Cervical cancer is virtually unknown in nuns and virgins.

What might this relationship between lack of circumcision and cervical cancer mean?

Circumcision protects the mate from cancer of the cervix by removing the foreskin which harbors sexually transmitted viruses that promote this common form of female cancer.

What is the relationship between circumcision and cancer of the penis?

The predicted lifetime risk of cancer of the penis in an uncircumcised man is 1 in 600 in the US. Cancer of the penis carries a mortality rate as high as 25%. This cancer occurs almost exclusively in uncircumcised men. In five major research studies, no man who had been circumcised as a newborn developed cancer of the penis. Human papillomavirus types 16 and 18, which are sexually transmitted, are involved in cancer of the penis.



The Pros and Cons
On the plus side, studies indicate that circumcised infants are less likely to contract a urinary tract infection (UTI) in the first year of life. About one out of every 1,000 circumcised boys has a UTI in the first year, whereas the rate is one in 100 (at most) for uncircumcised infants.

Circumcised men may also be at lower risk for penile cancer, although the disease is rare in both circumcised and uncircumcised males. Although some studies indicate that the procedure might offer an additional line of defense against sexually transmitted diseases (STDs), particularly HIV, the results of studies in this area are conflicting and difficult to interpret.

It's also easier to keep a circumcised penis clean, although uncircumcised boys can learn how to clean beneath the foreskin once the foreskin becomes retractable (usually some time before age 5). However, some uncircumcised boys can end up with infected foreskins as the result of poor hygiene.

Some people also claim that circumcision either lessens or heightens the sensitivity of the tip of the penis, decreasing or increasing sexual pleasure later in life. But neither of these subjective findings has been proven to be true.




I'm posting the pros AND cons, so I don't make it sound so one-sided. Looks like the cons are petty compared to the pros.The benefits
Circumcision may have health benefits, including:
Easier hygiene. Circumcision makes it easy to wash the penis — although it's simple to clean an uncircumcised penis, too.
Decreased risk of urinary tract infections. The risk of urinary tract infections in the first year is low, but these infections may be up to 10 times as common in uncircumcised baby boys. Severe infections early in life can lead to kidney problems later on.
Prevention of penile problems. Occasionally, the foreskin on an uncircumcised penis may narrow so much that it's difficult or impossible to retract. This can also lead to inflammation of the head of the penis.
Decreased risk of penile cancer. Although cancer of the penis is very rare, it's less common in circumcised men.
Decreased risk of sexually transmitted diseases. Safe sexual practices remain essential, but circumcised men may have a slightly lower risk of certain sexually transmitted diseases — including HIV, the virus that causes AIDS, and human papillomavirus (HPV), which causes genital warts. Some strains of HPV also cause cervical cancer.

The drawbacks
Circumcision also has drawbacks, including:

Surgical risks. Excessive bleeding and infection are uncommon, but possible. The foreskin may be cut too short or too long or fail to heal properly. If the remaining foreskin reattaches to the end of the penis, minor surgery may be needed to correct it.
Pain. Circumcision hurts. Local anesthesia can block nerve sensations during the procedure.
Permanence. After the procedure, it may be impossible to re-create the appearance of an uncircumcised penis.
Expense. Some insurance companies don't cover the cost of circumcision.
Other considerations
Circumcision shouldn't be done when a baby's urethral opening is in an abnormal position on the side or base of the penis. This condition is treated surgically and may require the foreskin for repair. Circumcision may not be an option in an infant with ambiguous genitalia or a family history of hemophilia.

Circumcision doesn't affect fertility. Whether the procedure enhances or detracts from sexual pleasure for men or their partners remains unknown.

Debra, not to speak for you, but Sarah- I think Debra was implying that she felt ignorant b/c she didn't do her research and cicurc her son when now after doing the research, she wouldn't of made that same choice & she won't for a future son. Ignorant as in- she just did what was the "normal" thing to do instead of making her own informative choice.

You got it right, chickadee! :)

So, don't criticize the parents who don't have their sons circumsize

Looks like the cons are petty compared to the pros.

I love how you say not to criticize children who are circ'd & then come back & call some of the cons that are believed in by parents who don't circ petty. Isn't that a little criticism??

An uncircumcised boy should be taught to clean his penis with care. Cleaning of the penis is done by gently, not forcibly, retracting the foreskin. The foreskin should be retracted only to the point where resistance is met. Full retraction of the foreskin may not be possible until the age of 3 or more.

That's exactly what I was told & read.

Sarah, what is the link to that site?

Debra, not to speak for you, but Sarah- I think Debra was implying that she felt ignorant b/c she didn't do her research and cicurc her son when now after doing the research, she wouldn't of made that same choice & she won't for a future son. Ignorant as in- she just did what was the "normal" thing to do instead of making her own informative choice.


Thank Rach. Hopefully that's what she meant, because if it is, it came out wrong.

An uncircumcised boy should be taught to clean his penis with care. Cleaning of the penis is done by gently, not forcibly, retracting the foreskin. The foreskin should be retracted only to the point where resistance is met. Full retraction of the foreskin may not be possible until the age of 3 or more.

That's exactly what I was told & read.

Sarah, what is the link to that site?

Let me find that for you. One sec..

Here it is Rach..
http://www.medicinenet.com/circumcision_the_medical_pros_and_cons/article.htm



It's under the part where it says "Is it easier to care for the penis circumcised or uncircumsised?"

Why is it that those who circumsize think its ok to circumsize or dont circumsize? And those who dont think that it is only ok to not circumsize? I mean I know there are some who circ who think thats the only way but in almost ALL the debates I have seen on the subject, the ones for circing maintain that it is a choice and whether you do or dont is all on you and how you parent where the ones who are adamant about not circing insist that is the only way to go? I seriously have always wondered this....Maybe thats a whole nother debate inb itself..

At any rate I still maintain what I said before. ;) And I dont need to validate it to anyone. My son is PERFECT in every way shape and form (L)

Thank Rach. Hopefully that's what she meant, because if it is, it came out wrong.

Rach was right. But I still stand by what I said & do not think it came out wrong at all!

Rach was right. But I still stand by what I said & do not think it came out wrong at all!


Well, it came across that way to me, but if you didn't mean it in the way I thought, then fine.

Like Kristi, I still stand by my decision and like you, I don't feel like I need to validate myself ;)

To each his or her own. It is a parental choice and I don't think badly of anyone that does or doesn't have it done. No one should be made to feel bad for the choice they make on this issue IMO. My ds is circumsized and dh and I both made that decision together.

We had our son circumsized and we are very happy with our decision. For all the reasons that every one else stated who is for circumcision...we believe its cleaner, looks better, is healthier in the long run etc etc etc.

And IMO, I think uncirumsized penises are ugly. And I hate the idea of my son having self-esteem issues or a body complex because he is embarassed about how his penis looks. Again, just my opinion.

Why is it that those who circumsize think its ok to circumsize or dont circumsize? And those who dont think that it is only ok to not circumsize? I mean I know there are some who circ who think thats the only way but in almost ALL the debates I have seen on the subject, the ones for circing maintain that it is a choice and whether you do or dont is all on you and how you parent where the ones who are adamant about not circing insist that is the only way to go? I seriously have always wondered this....Maybe thats a whole nother debate inb itself..

At any rate I still maintain what I said before. ;) And I dont need to validate it to anyone. My son is PERFECT in every way shape and form (L)

I think it's a personal choice...I don't know whats best for your kid, only mine...but it does bother me when people make statements how circ. is more clean than uncirc. or other weird statements that it isn't the same during sex or whatever.

Honestly, I MIGHT of circ. if I was with someone other than Phil who wasn't for circ. I don't know. I had never thought about it before. When I was pregnant though and we talked about it, he gave me his reasons why he wouldn't want it done and I started to consider it, did my reading and what not, and changed my opinion.

I think I would leave the decision up to my husband with discretion from the doctor.

And IMO, I think uncirumsized penises are ugly. And I hate the idea of my son having self-esteem issues or a body complex because he is embarassed about how his penis looks. Again, just my opinion.

Thank GOD someone else said it. I cannot STAND the sight of an uncirumsized penis.

Thank GOD someone else said it. I cannot STAND the sight of an uncirumsized penis.
I had actually never seen one until I was reading about it in a book while pregnant with E.... ANd I was promiscious as a kid...Not proud but I was and I actually had never seen one :dunno

And I hate the idea of my son having self-esteem issues or a body complex because he is embarassed about how his penis looks.

How will he have self-esteem issues if you bring him up in an understanding household where you teach them that not everyone is the same? And then address what others have to say if they ever make comments to him? Same would go for a girl as far as her body image.

And IMO, I think uncirumsized penises are ugly. And I hate the idea of my son having self-esteem issues or a body complex because he is embarassed about how his penis looks. Again, just my opinion.

this is what is wrong with america! people are too concern of their bodies and always comparing. i will raise Trent knowing that even if he is different from others on the outside we are all the same on the inside. i would hope you would raise your child the same.


JMO

Thank GOD someone else said it. I cannot STAND the sight of an uncirumsized penis.


I know this is your opinion, and that's cool, but I was the same way. It actually would scare me, thinking about whether or not the guy would be uncircumsized, before I would have sex with someone. I have seen 3 total. The first 2 grossed me out. The 3rd was Phil's. His looks nothing like I've seen before and it didn't even phase me. That's what changed my opinion on one...Which is also a factor in why we wouldn't. He never had any problems w/ his.

(which is also why I say an uncirc having to lube up everytime for sex is crazy! it is a NORMAL penis just w/ foreskin...which pulls back and looks just like a circ when erect)

this is what is wrong with america! people are too concern of their bodies and always comparing. i will raise Trent knowing that even if he is different from others on the outside we are all the same on the inside. i would hope you would raise your child the same.

JMO

That's what I was saying but you said it much better than I did! ;)

this is what is wrong with america! people are too concern of their bodies and always comparing. i will raise Trent knowing that even if he is different from others on the outside we are all the same on the inside. i would hope you would raise your child the same.


JMO
Oh come on Jill I believe EVERY parent on this board will or does just that but let's come back to the "real world" it's a cruel world PERIOD. I tell our son all the time that it's ok that he's small. In fact I preach the pro's of being short but in the locker room the boy takes major heat. It's life, life isn't all roses. Sad but true.

I know this is your opinion, and that's cool, but I was the same way. It actually would scare me, thinking about whether or not the guy would be uncircumsized, before I would have sex with someone. I have seen 3 total. The first 2 grossed me out. The 3rd was Phil's. His looks nothing like I've seen before and it didn't even phase me. That's what changed my opinion on one...Which is also a factor in why we wouldn't. He never had any problems w/ his.

(which is also why I say an uncirc having to lube up everytime for sex is crazy! it is a NORMAL penis just w/ foreskin...which pulls back and looks just like a circ when erect)

Rach I'm just being honest here. I have no reason not to be. I personally find them to be gross. It's not an issue being that my dh and my son are both clipped.

My boys are Circ'd. Sylas will be circ'd.

WHY?

Beucase this is a society that has MAJOR image issues. There is no way around it. And unfortunatly it only gets worse with each generation.

I will admit it. I am a image focused person at times and do not want my boys to get picked on, which they DO, for not being part of the norm.

All 3 of my boys are circumcised. I left the decision to my hubby. I gave him all the literature, for and against, and he decided he wanted it done. I personally didn't feel I comfortable making the decision because I don't have those "parts".

My husband is, and he was more comfortable having his boys the same!

Same here. For the both of my boys it was his decision. I would have supported him either way.

In our house there are some decisions we give the final decision to dh and some we give the final decision to me. All of those decisions we have discussed and feel that what ever the other decides will be for the best.

It is my decision when our girls get their ears pierced or wear make-up.

For our son it was Dh's decision about circumcising. My dh is circed and he wanted our son done. That is that.

I have 2 brothers 1 who is and 1 who is not and they are both fine. I also have a friend with 2 boys 1 is and 1 is not and again they are both fine. I do not care what anyone else decides. In my opinion I have read enough for both sides of the debate to be good decisions. I truly feel there is no right or wrong answer with this.

Dont have any boys but if/when we do, he will be circumsized. Personal choice...Dh is so he wants his son to be.

I knew this would turn into a fight even though I did not mean for it to. It is a sensitive subject. I was only wanting to know the reasons why people chose not to.

Thank you all for not letting this get out of hand :five

I guess I have a hard time understanding that reason. Seems a little superficial (just my opinion, like its your opinion that uncirc are gross)...There will always be something your kid could be made fun of about...

(Phil was never made fun of for it)

I knew this would turn into a fight even though I did not mean for it to. It is a sensitive subject. I was only wanting to know the reasons why people chose not to.

Thank you all for not letting this get out of hand :five

We can change that if you want April :devil

How will he have self-esteem issues if you bring him up in an understanding household where you teach them that not everyone is the same? And then address what others have to say if they ever make comments to him? Same would go for a girl as far as her body image.

Because kids are just cruel and no matter how well you educate your child about it, he will still be subject to insensitivity of others...IMO

i actually pretty proud of us! this post is what? 8 pages long and no one was told to take it to PMs!!!:thumbsup


:lol

Typically any debate that has to do with parenting turns nasty but this one is pretty impressive. :thumbsup

Because kids are just cruel and no matter how well you educate your child about it, he will still be subject to insensitivity of others...IMO

that is true about kids being cruel. look at my son (:cloud9 ) he is red-headed and fair skin. he is going to get made fun of and called names (carrot top, ghost-boy) does that mean i need to dye his hair and tan him? being different is apart of society. it should just be accepted.:dunno

We can change that if you want April :devil


:shame

this is what is wrong with america! people are too concern of their bodies and always comparing. i will raise Trent knowing that even if he is different from others on the outside we are all the same on the inside. i would hope you would raise your child the same.


JMO

I do not need to validate my parenting style to you. We can just agree to disagree.

My child is one of the most respectful children you would ever meet. We have and will always instill good values and morales in him.

that is true about kids being cruel. look at my son (:cloud9 ) he is red-headed and fair skin. he is going to get made fun of and called names (carrot top, ghost-boy) does that mean i need to dye his hair and tan him? being different is apart of society. it should just be accepted.:dunno

Yes it SHOULD be accepted. But most of the time its quite the opposite :D


I should remember to call my grandmother weekly... she's getting old and loves it when I call. I dont. I should learn to accept my husbands flaws... I dont... I could go on and on and on on what shoulda coulda woulda


And now SHOULD looks like its spelled wrong and Im looking at it saying what the hell does that misspelled word mean? :shock :hairout

this is tame compared to what i just came from! I love it here...

Nobody had to get out the boxing gloves while I was out walking? Bravo! :P

both of my boys are circ'd. Gabe we did it cause DH is. I am glad we did, otherwise we would have had to have him circ'd at 2.5 cause of his issues. that is why were told to have Chris circ'd. He has the same gene mutation that Gabe has that caused his cancer. with that involving kidney's, they wanted to cut down any chances of uti's getting to the kidney. and un-circ'd males have higher incidences with uti's than circ'd males.

to be honest, we would've had Chris' done regardless. to me it was an image issue as well. Gabe is already teased really bad by the kids in the neighborhood about his scars on his belly. Savannah was teased in Kindergarten cause Gabe was bald when he was going through chemo!! I would hate to see the teasing that goes on in a locker room about something like that. kids are cruel. it doesn't matter how much you teach your children the ways we are all different. kids are mean, plain and simple. and the teasing no matter what you say will hurt. MVHO

but like others have said. the decisions that you make for your child are yours and yours alone, and there is nothing anyone has to validate to anyone!

There is plenty of medical data for PRO circumscision. It may not happen now, but perhaps later in life there can be lots of problems. I did have my son done and would have any other male child I had. I have seen the MAJOR problems it cause working with geratric patients. I felt sorry for those poor men.

Here are some pros:

research studies suggest that there may be some medical benefits to circumcision. These include the following:

A lower risk of urinary tract infections (UTIs). A circumcised infant boy has about a 1 in 1,000 chance of developing a UTI in the first year of life; an uncircumcised infant boy has about a 1 in 100 chance of developing a UTI in the first year of life.

A lower risk of getting cancer of the penis. However, this type of cancer is very rare in both circumcised and uncircumcised males.

A slightly lower risk of getting sexually transmitted diseases (STDs), including HIV, the AIDS virus.

Prevention of foreskin infections.

Prevention of phimosis, a condition in uncircumcised males that makes foreskin retraction impossible.

Easier genital hygiene.

my dh is and he wants our son to be too if/when we have one

If they don't get circmucized, they usually do it when they get older. And I don't see the point of not doing it. It's heathier for them.

We didn't even have to think about it. It's cleaner and just looks better.LOL

Coming from a country where circumcizion (sp?) is done at a much lower rate than in the US. From what I read it is at about 15% in Germany and at about 60% (tendency falling) in the US. After finding out I was pregnant I started looking into this topic more since I knew from previous debates on here and on other sites that it is a pretty heated debates. As said before, there are reasons for and against it. Neither side (IMO) has the upper hand in this and it simply goes back to the parents and what they believe would be the right choice for their son.

I put this here because it could get nasty.


But I was wondering why people choose to not circumcise their sons. Other than they do not want their baby to have surgery or be cut or hurt......are there any other reasons? OK maybe no men in the family has been....


What irritates me most is that parents do not pull up that skin and clean down in there. It gets nasty. It smells. It gets infected. Why would parents choose to not circumcise and then not clean properly :banghead I feel sorry for these kids.

I have all 3 of mine mine circumsized, it never even crossed my mind not to do it.

and doctors actually say that you don't have to pull the skin back, the body takes care of itself. They say infection arent caused from it. I don't know if I believe it or not, but that's what they are saying.

My husband and I both decided after doing the research, as well as religious beliefs, that our son (when/if we have him) will be circumsized.

I have all 3 of mine mine circumsized, it never even crossed my mind not to do it.

and doctors actually say that you don't have to pull the skin back, the body takes care of itself. They say infection arent caused from it. I don't know if I believe it or not, but that's what they are saying.


I'm sure you probably did not read the whole 9 pages...

When they show up to daycare with shit literally under the skin and it all red and them crying, holding their diapers because it hurts then yes, I assume thier pain is due to not cleaning under the skin. And I'm talking about 2-3 year olds not newborns. By age 2 the skin is usually pretty loose and needs a good rinse in the tub. Just plain water would do wonders. Oh and then there are the parents who smother the penis and under the skin with diaper rash cream, which just dries out the sensitive skin under there and it cracks and gets bloody...... seriously, parents do choose to not need a lesson too.

Besides my little bro (who had it done for medical reasons) noone in my immediate family has been circ'd. I think it's a social thing - the majority of men in the UK are not circ'd. My uncle and cousins have had the snip, however, for relgious reasons. Df is circ'd and we're still discussing whether or not we would do the same to our kids.

:) Okay, so I'll be the religious side of this debate. For me, being Jewish, there is no real choice. I hold my faith very dear to my heart. My son will be circumcised in accordance with Jewish/Torah commands; that a male be circumcised on the eighth day after birth (Gen 17.11). For us, it is a sign of the covenant between G-d & His people.

I believe that it is the Mothers place to decide what happens to their babies. are you saying that it is not the dads place to decide about getting their daughters ears pierced because they dont wear earrings?

If the dad wants to have a choice in his daughters ears getting pierced that's fine, his son can get his ears pierced just as well as the girl's can. but a girl will never have to go through the process a boy does so the mother has no experience with it so why should she have a say? unless the father is ok with the mother choosing

i agree i think the father should make the final decision but it should be discussed openly between the mother and father. dh will read the literature as will i. dh is snipped so he might choose to have our son be snipped too. i'm fine with it either way, i'm not against it one way or the other.

I dont agree that the father should make the final decision if he's not going to be there for the procedure or to take care of the child afterwards. I personally couldn't take my child to be circ'd, though I'm open to discussion about df taking his kid for the procedure, if it's something he feels strongly about.

I dont agree that the father should make the final decision if he's not going to be there for the procedure or to take care of the child afterwards. I personally couldn't take my child to be circ'd, though I'm open to discussion about df taking his kid for the procedure, if it's something he feels strongly about.

dh wantd it done. i told him if he could watch one video AND trent getting it done then i had no problem with it. of course i said that because dh can not stand watching someone get kick in those parts let alone his someone get it.

if the dh will be there and take part in the care afterwards and he wants our son to have it done then i will be okay with that. i don't mind it either way

dh wantd it done. i told him if he could watch one video AND trent getting it done then i had no problem with it. of course i said that because dh can not stand watching someone get kick in those parts let alone his someone get it.

That's a good idea!

Trent is not circumcised. it is an unneed procedure. the only reason for it is for looks. not one medically reason. you also are not suppose to pull it back. it naturally retracts itself. keeping it clean is not hard. wash it like you do your whole body. soap and water.

while you wonder why i did not get it done, i wonder why people remove skin from their sons. it does not make sense to put a child through pain because of the locker room (meaning worrying about what other kids think or say) 40% of boys are now leaving the hospital intact. look out! natural peni is taking over!!:hehe


I beg to differ. My cousin's skin there literally tore partially off in the middle of having sex. They had to call the paramedics because it wouldn't stop bleeding. They had to circumcise him in the hospital.

I beg to differ. My cousin's skin there literally tore partially off in the middle of having sex. They had to call the paramedics because it wouldn't stop bleeding. They had to circumcise him in the hospital.

Ok, generally speaking it's unneeded.

umm......yeah my links are one-sided!:rolleyes that is point of debate. backing up your beliefs and opinions. so not only am i irresponsible or negligence towards trent but also ignorant. Sarah or anyone else,show me a site where it backs up circumcision AND it is okay to retract a penis.

BTW-unless your website says: Copyright 1995-2006 American Medical Association. All rights reserved

(or the information is approved by the AMA among others)

...then I don't want to read it.

There is alot of untrue medical websites out there that are very misleading and false.

ETA: If I happen to have boys, they will be snipped.

Ok, generally speaking it's unneeded.

What do you mean by that?

What do you mean by that?

Well, Jill said that circumcision was unneeded, from a medical point of view. I'm saying that generally speaking, she is right but there are cases (for example my brother) where it is necessary for medical reasons.

I let my ex decide if DS should be circ. My ex is a neonatologist and is uncirc--he had our DS circ.


___I am glad I went back and reread my post...I put a "H" where there was suppose to be an "S" LOL...moral of the story: Don't post until I have had at least two cups of coffee.

If/when we have a son he'll be circumsized. We're just mean, awful parents, that's why :giggle

I'm sure you probably did not read the whole 9 pages...

Nope I was too lazy to read it all when I made that reply :D

regardless, I have my boys circumsized and I do not regret the decision at all. It was the right decision for us. If I have 10 more boys they will all the the snip too ;)

oh my word talk about a debate LOL. well i guess i will throw my 2 cents in but im not bashing anyone for their choices either. I have had all 3 of my sons circumsized and I am glad that I did and my reasonings were all based on religious beliefs plus it is more hygenic too. I do not feel ashamed for doing it either. I didnt have to go to websites to do research to know it was the right thing to do either. thats just mans opinion. I think it would be less painful for a newborn than it would be to have a 12 year old getting it done like Abraham had to do to his son but he did it because God told him to do it. oh and no bashing please. this is all my opinion and I do allow others to have their opinions too and im not saying who's way is right and who's is wrong I am just saying why I had it done.

If/when we have a son he'll be circumsized. We're just mean, awful parents, that's why :giggle


:lmao

:) Thank you, Cat, for being another voice in this for having circumcision done for religious reasons. My fiance & I talked about this when he got home for work & he said he'd do it for religious reasons too. That is reason enough for us.

:) Thank you, Cat, for being another voice in this for having circumcision done for religious reasons. My fiance & I talked about this when he got home for work & he said he'd do it for religious reasons too. That is reason enough for us.

okay i am going to take the bite.;) i also did my research while i was pregnant. being a christian i wanted to make sure that i was not doing anything wrong. talking to my preacher, he stated that is has both to circumcised and not to circumcised. while i know the verses saying to circumcise i thought i would post other verses.

1 Corinthians 7:19 (Whole Chapter)
Circumcision is nothing and uncircumcision is nothing. Keeping God's commands is what counts

Galatians 5:6 (Whole Chapter)
For in Christ Jesus neither circumcision nor uncircumcision has any value. The only thing that counts is faith expressing itself through love



Galatians 6:15 (Whole Chapter)
Neither circumcision nor uncircumcision means anything; what counts is a new creation.


Just a thought

so i guess if we choose to circumcise that its an expression of our faith that we did what God asked us to do? do i understand that right? i think thats the whole reasoning behind it because we have that faith and follow thru with it. meaning if we love God we will follow thru with his commands.

its like it symbolizes the cutting off of the old man and putting on the new man in christ. kinda like for those people who follow the practice of baptism. when you are baptized you are putting off the old man and putting on the new man in christ. maybe thats why alot of people dont physically circumsize their sons because of the new testament ways. but then you have some faiths that dont go by the new testament and therefore they follow the old testament and do physically circumsize their sons.

okay i am going to take the bite.;) i also did my research while i was pregnant. being a christian i wanted to make sure that i was not doing anything wrong. talking to my preacher, he stated that is has both to circumcised and not to circumcised. while i know the verses saying to circumcise i thought i would post other verses.







Just a thought

So that in itself PROVES that either choice is the RIGHT choice so there shouldn't be a debate at all. ;)

Quote:
Galatians 5:6 (Whole Chapter)
For in Christ Jesus neither circumcision nor uncircumcision has any value. The only thing that counts is faith expressing itself through love



but you left out this part too. to me the only way you can express your faith by love is by doing what God has asked of us to do. I know you all may not agree with this but dont leave this part out either.

So that in itself PROVES that either choice is the RIGHT choice so there shouldn't be a debate at all. ;)


Dang it! i typed a whole post earlier and my computer crashed.:banghead i agree that religious aspect there is no right or wrong. that is why i do not use religion as one of my points.

Quote:
Galatians 5:6 (Whole Chapter)
For in Christ Jesus neither circumcision nor uncircumcision has any value. The only thing that counts is faith expressing itself through love



but you left out this part too. to me the only way you can express your faith by love is by doing what God has asked of us to do. I know you all may not agree with this but dont leave this part out either.

i am confused. do you agree or disagree with me?

Dh and I have talked about it before. If we have sons they will be circumcised.

i am confused. do you agree or disagree with me?


well im not sure but if you mean what i am about to say then i would say that i agree with you.

but in the new testament when that verse speaks of circumcision its talking about the heart. circumcision of the heart and not like it was in the old testament the old testament was speaking of the physical act of circumsion but the old testament points to the new testament. if we circumcise our hearts we are in a way putting off our old man and making a commitment to God to live a more Godly way of life even knowing that we will all fall short of his glory. but its the act of circumsizing our hearts that is what he is looking for and its expressing our faith in love. so if you didnt circumsize your heart thats not showing your faith through love is it? thats the part where i dont quite get.

I'm going to have my son circumcised if I have one... not for religious reasons because I'm not that into religion but just because I choose to. :D

We had to have Lance circumcised because of medical reasons. Going back, dh and I both decided he would have had it done either way.