Circumcision - meaning and definition
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Not yet reviewed by a clinician. This health entry was written from the public-health sources listed below and is general information only. It is not medical advice.
Definition
Circumcision is the surgical removal of the foreskin of the penis. It is done for religious, cultural or medical reasons, or as part of HIV prevention programmes in some regions.
At a glance
- Circumcision is the surgical removal of the foreskin of the penis.
- It is done for religious, cultural or medical reasons, and rates vary widely between countries.
- Medical reasons can include a very tight foreskin or recurring infections.
- Voluntary medical male circumcision lowers men's risk of acquiring HIV through heterosexual sex, but does not replace condoms.
- Non-medical circumcision of infants is debated, and professional bodies take different positions.
In detail
Rates of circumcision vary widely by country and community. Medical reasons can include a very tight foreskin or recurring infections. In parts of sub-Saharan Africa, voluntary medical male circumcision is offered because studies found it lowers the risk of heterosexual men acquiring HIV, although it does not replace condoms or other prevention.
Whether to circumcise infants for non-medical reasons is debated, and professional bodies in different countries take different positions. Recovery after the procedure in adults usually takes a few weeks.
In a sentence
- The urologist said circumcision was one option for his recurring infections.
- The documentary looked at how attitudes to circumcision differ between countries.
Where the word comes from
From Latin circumcisio, from circumcidere, meaning to cut around.
Not to be confused with
- Female genital mutilation
Female genital mutilation is a harmful practice with no health benefits and is recognised internationally as a human rights violation.
Common questions
Does circumcision protect against HIV?
Studies found that voluntary medical male circumcision lowers the risk of heterosexual men acquiring HIV, which is why it is offered as part of prevention programmes in parts of sub-Saharan Africa. It reduces risk but does not remove it, so it does not replace condoms, PrEP or other prevention. A sexual health clinic can explain the options.
How long does recovery take for adults?
Recovery in adults usually takes a few weeks. The surgical team gives specific aftercare instructions, and any concerns about healing should be raised with them or a doctor.
Related terms
Sources
- NHSCircumcision in men
- MedlinePlusCircumcision