What are the Pros and Cons of Circumcision?

Male circumcision has been a controversial topic for many years Choma. There are some who believe that it’s an important thing for every boy to go through (either for cultural or medical reasons) and there are those who don’t believe in it at all. There doesn't seem to be an agreement about whether it is good or bad so let’s look at some of the views around circumcision.

What is circumcision?

Circumcision is a medical procedure where loose skin (foreskin) is cut from the tip of the penis. It’s something that’s practised all around the world, a lot of the times for cultural reasons. In some cultures, males are circumcised when they are babies or young boys. Some guys might only decide to get circumcised when they are much older.

Negative views of Circumcision

• Some guys complain that circumcision decreases the level of sensitivity in the penis, also complaining that it reduces pleasure during sex. However, not all guys feel this way.

• For some, the circumcision procedure can be really risky. If not performed properly, the procedure can lead to infections and some guys might develop more scar tissue than normal (which could be one reason for reduced sensitivity).

Positive views of circumcision

• Circumcision is said to improve hygiene because there is less bacteria that forms around the foreskin. Having less bacteria means that there’s less of a chance of infections, including Urinary Tract Infections (UTIs) and Sexually Transmitted Infections (STIs) - including HIV.

• Circumcision is said to decrease a guy’s chances of getting HIV.

• Circumcision is also said to decrease a man’s chances of penile cancer (where cancer cells form in the tissues of the penis).

• A guy who is circumcised is said to be less likely to give his partner a STI, like HPV (which is a STI that increases a woman’s risk of cervical cancer).

These are some of the known views on circumcision based on research Choma. But at the end of the day, if you want to know the facts about male circumcision, whether you're male or female, you’re strongly advised to speak to a healthcare practitioner. Essentially Choma, the best person to inform you about medical procedures is a medical practitioner.

What are your views on circumcision? Let me know in the comments.

Remember, if you or a friend need advice or help, you can contact me here on Ask Choma, send me a Facebook Message, a Twitter DM, or a WhatsApp Message (071 172 3657)