Q&A: Should We Circumcise the Baby?

Sorry, no should or shouldn’t here. The opinions are endless (google circumcision-you’ll see), but according to the American Academy of Pediatrics, it’s your call. Some things to consider:

•Circumcised penises are easier to keep clean.

•A circumcised boy has a 1 in 1,000 chance of getting a UTI. Left uncircumcised, his risk is 1 in 100.

•STDs like syphilis, HPV and HIV are more common in uncircumcised men. But, teach your son about condoms and hygiene, and his risk goes way down (with or without foreskin).

•Penile cancer, though extremely rare, is more common in uncircumcised men.

•Heard the one about circumcision decreasing sexual pleasure? No hard facts supporting it.

•Foreskin can get inflamed or become too tight. But, it also protects the penis from irritation.

•Circumcision is surgery. About 1 in 500 newborns have minor bleeding, pain, irritation or infection.

•Yes, it hurts. If you circumcise, insist on a local anesthetic — an injection or topical cream — to keep baby comfy. A pacifier dipped in sugar water will also calm him down.

•Today, about 60% of newborn boys are circumcised. No matter what you decide, baby will be just fine in the locker room.