While we always look to educate parents about the benefits and risks of circumcision, we encounter plenty of parents who have performed extra research on whether they should have their newborn circumcised. On the one hand, doing this research uncovers many opinions and experiences. On the other, there is plenty of misinformation floating around that should not factor into such an important decision. One of the more hotly debated topics involving circumcision revolves around penile sensitivity and, ultimately, sexual enjoyment later in life. There are conflicting opinions and even studies about whether removing the foreskin affects the individual’s ability to enjoy sex or sexual activity later in life. These studies have tried to compare sensitivity and pleasure between those who have and those who haven’t had a circumcision.
Quality Studies Show Little to No Difference
While it is highly subjective and challenging to measure someone’s relative sensitivity and pleasure during sexual relations, many studies over the years have tried to give us the answer. Most high-quality studies have shown that most of the sexual sensation men experience comes from the glands (or head) as well as the underside of the penis. In other words, the foreskin itself, while containing nerve endings, does not strongly factor into a pleasurable sexual experience.
On the other hand, less rigorous studies have shown that circumcision may reduce sensation during sexual relations in the future. Of course, as part of our jobs, it is incumbent upon any pediatric urologist performing newborn circumcisions to understand this topic and formulate their own opinions. Based on the data and the quality of studies that we have, we believe that a well-performed newborn circumcision does not appreciably change penile sensation later in life.
What About Surgical Injury?
With that said, however, injury to the penis, while rare, can indeed change feeling and sensation. Improper clamp placement and surgical technique, amongst other concerns, can cause problems. And this is where one of the most critical decisions will be made – who will perform the procedure? Ultimately, while circumcision is a relatively straightforward procedure that can be performed in different settings and by various medical and even nonmedical practitioners, it’s essential to choose an experienced pediatric urologic surgeon to ensure the highest level of training. Each of the pediatric urologic surgeons at The Newborn Circumcision Center is fellowship-trained and board-certified, adhering to the very highest standards of medical care.
To learn more and speak to our staff members about the circumcision process and to schedule a consultation with one of our urologists, we encourage you to call our office at (678) 208-6288 or take our newborn circumcision questionnaire to request an appointment and learn more. To give yourself the appropriate amount of time, feel free to give us a call several weeks in advance of the due date, or even as soon as you find out the sex of your child, you find out you’re having a boy. We will be happy to have an honest conversation about the pros and cons of circumcision to help you make the right decision for yourself and your family.