Circumcision is a procedure done typically on a male after birth that removes the foreskin, which is the fold of skin that covers the tip of the penis. The skin is removed by a doctor or a mohel, which is a Jewish official who performs circumcisions. It's estimated that 37-39% of men across the globe are circumcised, making it nearly half the male population. The history of circumcision dates back to the Biblical times when it was believed that the procedure was a commandment from God, but what is circumcision today? Is this procedure necessary? And, what differences are there between an uncircumcised penis and a circumcised penis?

Today's topic is an important one that deals with the differences between a circumcised penis and an uncircumcised penis. But before you read further, it's important to note that this post is solely for information, and the information should NOT be used as a guide to circumcise or not to circumcise your child.

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What Is Circumcision?

Circumcision is the surgical removal of the foreskin from the penis. The foreskin is a fold of skin that covers the tip of the penis. This procedure is done typically on a male after birth, although it can be done later in life. Circumcision is performed using a scalpel or a laser. A scalpel is used for traditional circumcision, and a laser is used during surgical circumcision. After the procedure is preformed, the penis is wrapped in gauze and a bandage is applied to the penis.

There are three types of circumcision:

1. The Gomco Clamp- In this procedure, the foreskin is pulled through a clamp that is attached to a ring. The ring is placed around the head of the penis, and a scalpel is used to remove the foreskin.

2. The Plastibell Technique- This procedure uses a bell-shaped device that is placed over the head of the penis. A scalpel is then used to excise the foreskin.

3. The Mogen Technique- In this procedure, a clamp is applied to the penis, and a scalpel is used to remove the foreskin.

What Are the Risks of Circumcision?

Although circumcision is a commonly performed procedure with few complications, there are risks. Some of the risks include bleeding, infection, improper healing, and irritation of the tip of the penis. There is also the obvious result of causing your baby pain.

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Why Do People Circumcise Their Babies?

People circumcise their babies for many different reasons. Some reasons include:

1. To prevent penile hygiene issues. A circumcised penis is easier to clean.

2. To decrease the risk of UTIs. Circumcised penises have a smaller risk of developing a urinary tract infection.

3. To decrease the risk of penile cancer. Circumcised penises have a decreased risk of developing penile cancer, although it still does occur.

4. For cultural or religious beliefs. Many religions and cultures believe that circumcision is a commandment from God and must be done.

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Are There Downsides?

Even though circumcision has many benefits, there are some downsides. For example, there is a risk of complications. The risk of complications is very rare, but still possible. Most common complications include penile damage, bleeding, and infection.

Some studies show that there is a decreased sexual sensitivity in circumcised men. This is because the foreskin is removed, which is a very sensitive part of the penis.

There is the downside of not giving your child autonomy over their own bodies, since circumcision is done to infants. Although it is up to parents to make this decision, they should be aware of the risks and benefits, and think about their child's future. Statistics show that the rates of circumcision are dropping in the United States.

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What Are the Main Differences Between Circumcised and Natural Penises?

1. Hygiene —  Since the foreskin is removed, the circumcised penis is easier to clean. This is a small difference, but it is frequently brought up. It is easier to clean, but that doesn't mean non-circumcised penises aren't clean. The foreskin can be pulled back to clean beneath it easily.

2. Risk of UTIs —  Circumcised penises have a decreased risk of UTIs, but the risk is still present.

3. Risk of Penile Cancer —  This is a big difference between circumcised and natural penises. Circumcised penises have a decreased risk of developing penile cancer. This is in part because circumcised penises typically have less smegma buildup, which has been linked to the development of penile cancer.

4. Sexual Sensitivity —  Studies show that circumcised men tend to be less sensitive during sex. This is because their foreskin has been removed, which is very sensitive. It is important to note that this is not the case for all men.

5. Size —  Many people believe that circumcised penises are longer, but this isn't the case. There is very little evidence regarding if circumcision affects the size of a penis.

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Final Thoughts on Circumcision

There are very minimal differences between circumcised and natural penises. The main differences are that circumcised dicks are easier to clean, have a decreased risk of UTIs, and have a decreased risk of penile cancer. There are also some downsides to circumcision, like the loss of sensitivity, and the fact that you're making a permanent choice for your child without their consent.

It is important to note that this is not an article about whether or not circumcision is right or wrong. It is simply an article to provide the facts of circumcision and the differences between natural and circumcised penises.