Post-Circumcision Care for Children

Male circumcision is a surgical procedure in which the foreskin covering the tip of the penis is removed. It is a common religious and cultural practice, especially in Arab and Islamic communities. Proper care after circumcision is essential to ensure healthy healing and to reduce complications. However, some parents may lack adequate knowledge on how to care for the circumcision site. There is no fixed age for circumcision, but it is generally preferred within the first few days of life, as the pain is milder and local anesthesia is usually sufficient. For older children, general anesthesia may be recommended to avoid pain and psychological distress. This article outlines proper post-circumcision care to ensure safe recovery.

 

Who is qualified to perform circumcision?

Although male circumcision is common, it is essential that the procedure be performed by a qualified physician. It may be carried out by an OB-GYN, a pediatric surgeon, or a general surgeon. Circumcision is often performed in a clinic setting, but the most important factor is a sterile environment to ensure safety.

 

What are the methods of male circumcision?

There are several medical techniques for male circumcision. The choice depends on the child’s age, physician preference, and available tools. The most common methods include:

• Gomco Clamp: A metal clamp is used to separate the foreskin from the glans, reducing bleeding. The foreskin is then removed with a surgical scalpel.
• Mogen Clamp: A scissor-like device is used to grasp and pull the foreskin, which is then quickly removed with a scalpel.
• Plastibell Device: A small plastic ring is placed under the foreskin, and a string is tied around it to apply pressure. The foreskin is cut, and the ring remains until it naturally falls off. This method has a higher risk of infection and is less commonly used.

 

What are the potential benefits of circumcision?

• Reduced risk of penile cancer.
• Lower risk of urinary tract infections.
• Prevention of balanitis (inflammation of the glans) that may cause swelling and discomfort.
• Treatment of phimosis, a condition where the foreskin cannot be pulled back, leading to hygiene issues and infections.

 

What symptoms are expected after circumcision?

Parents should be aware of normal post-operative symptoms, which do not typically require medical attention:

• Swelling or bruising of the penis.
• Mild bleeding from the urinary opening in older children.
• Sleep disturbances due to discomfort.
• Color change at the tip of the penis after a few days.

 

When should you consult a doctor after circumcision?

• Fever or ongoing bleeding at the surgical site.
• Unusual odor from the penis area.
• Yellow discharge from the wound.
• Dark or purple discoloration of the entire penis.
• Swelling persisting for more than two weeks.
• Failure to urinate within 12 hours after surgery.

 

Child’s activity after circumcision:

• Allow a few days of rest to support recovery.
• Avoid vigorous or high-impact activities.
• Older children should avoid cycling for a month.
• Wait 3–4 weeks before resuming sports or running.
• Bathing or sponge baths can begin the day after surgery. Consult your doctor about swimming or full baths.
• Keep your child at home for at least 3 days before returning to nursery or school.

 

Diet after circumcision

Ensure the child stays hydrated by drinking clear fluids such as water and natural juices, especially on the first day. Offer soft, fiber-rich foods and avoid spicy or irritating foods that may worsen discomfort in the circumcision area.

 

Medication and treatment instructions after circumcision

• Follow the physician’s instructions exactly for medications.
• Administer prescribed painkillers only as directed.
• Avoid giving aspirin to children under 18 due to risk of Reye’s syndrome.
• Complete the full course of antibiotics, even if symptoms improve.
• Watch for allergic reactions or side effects.

 

How to care for the wound after circumcision?

• Wash your hands before touching the wound.
• Gently clean the area daily with warm water and dry thoroughly.
• Avoid using alcohol or hydrogen peroxide on the wound.
• Apply petroleum jelly to the site and cover with gauze to prevent rubbing.
• Change the dressing daily or when soiled or wet.
• Ensure diapers or underwear are loose to avoid pressure.

 

In conclusion, parents should monitor their child’s healing process, follow wound care instructions diligently, and seek medical advice for any abnormal signs to ensure a safe and quick recovery.