Respecting Boys’ Bodies

Circumcision is a topic that has sparked much debate and controversy over the years, with opinions on both sides of the issue. While some may view it as a necessary procedure, others see it as an unnecessary and potentially harmful practice. The decision to circumcise a newborn baby boy is often left up to the parents, but many are now beginning to question whether this is the right choice for their child. More and more families are choosing to keep their sons intact, recognizing the numerous benefits that come with leaving their bodies as nature intended. In this article, we will explore the reasons behind this growing movement and the importance of preserving the health and dignity of boys by keeping them intact.

Circumcision, the surgical removal of the foreskin covering the head of the penis, has been a common practice for generations, often done for cultural, religious or medical reasons. However, in recent years, there has been a growing movement to leave boys intact and forgo this unnecessary procedure. Research suggests that circumcision may not only be painful and traumatic for babies but also poses potential risks such as bleeding, infection, and loss of sensation. Furthermore, removing the foreskin may result in a decrease in natural lubrication and sexual pleasure later in life. For these reasons, more and more families are opting to keep their sons intact, recognizing the many benefits that come with leaving their bodies as nature intended.

While approximately 80% of the world’s population does not practice circumcision, in the United States, one circumcision is performed every 25 seconds. Despite this, no major medical organization officially recommends circumcision. The American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) notes that the health benefits of circumcision are not sufficient to recommend routine circumcision for all male infants and the decision to circumcise should be based on personal, cultural, and religious factors, rather than medical benefits.

Here are some important facts to consider:

  • The foreskin is a natural part of the anatomy with several important functions and benefits, including protecting the penis from chafing, provides lubrication during intercourse, and protects the meatus from infection.
  • Foreskin has about 20,000 nerve endings. Removing it can reduce sensitivity and pleasure. A study published in the British Journal of Urology International found that circumcised men reported less sexual pleasure than their intact counterparts.
  • Newborns are not given proper pain relief during the procedure. The pain often gets better in 3 or 4 days. But it may last up to 2 weeks.
  • Circumcision is a permanent and irreversible procedure that removes healthy tissue from the body. As such, it should only be performed with the informed consent of the individual who will undergo the procedure. Infants cannot give informed consent, so it is ethically questionable to perform circumcision on them without a compelling medical reason.

Although it is a common procedure, it is not without risks.

Here are some of the complications that may arise from circumcision:

  1. Bleeding: Bleeding is a common complication after circumcision, and it may require medical attention.
  2. Infection: The area where the circumcision was performed can become infected, leading to pain, swelling, and other complications.
  3. Skin bridges: Sometimes, the skin may grow back over the head of the penis, creating a bridge that can cause pain and discomfort.
  4. Scarring: The circumcision scar can be thick and raised, leading to cosmetic concerns.
  5. Meatal stenosis: This is a narrowing of the urethra opening, which can lead to difficulty urinating and urinary tract infections.
  6. Erectile dysfunction: There have been reports of decreased sexual sensation and difficulty achieving an erection following circumcision.
  7. Hypospadias: This is a rare condition where the urethra opening is not at the tip of the penis, but on the underside.
  8. Phimosis: Circumcision can cause the remaining foreskin to become tight, leading to difficulty retracting the foreskin.
  9. Psychological effects: Some men report feeling violated or traumatized by the procedure, leading to psychological distress.

It is important to note that not all circumcisions result in complications, and many circumcised men do not experience any adverse effects. However, it is important for individuals and parents to consider the potential risks and benefits before making a decision about circumcision.

The decision to circumcise a child is a deeply personal one that should be made after careful consideration of all the potential risks and benefits. It is important for parents to educate themselves on the topic and have open and honest conversations with their healthcare providers and partners to make a decision that they can feel good about and stand behind. Every family is unique, and what works for one may not work for another. Whatever decision is made, it is important to prioritize the health and well-being of the child and ensure that they receive the best possible care.

I believe that all parents want the best for their children and that each family’s choice should be respected. If you choose, or have chosen to circumcise your child I am not judging you or trying to make you feel bad. My intention is to raise awareness about the potential risks of circumcision and advocate for bodily autonomy.

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