circumcised

Circumcised describes a person who has undergone circumcision, a surgical procedure that removes part or all of the foreskin (prepuce) covering the glans of the penis. The term can refer to the status of infancy or adulthood.

Procedure and timing: Circumcision is commonly performed in infancy but may be done later in life. It is typically carried out under local or regional anesthesia, and in adults sometimes under general anesthesia. Techniques include the Gomco clamp, Plastibell device, and Mogen clamp. Healing after infant circumcision usually occurs within one to two weeks; recovery times can vary with age and method.

Cultural, religious, and regional context: Circumcision has long-standing cultural and religious significance in Judaism and Islam and is practiced in various cultures across Africa and Oceania. In some countries it is widespread, while in others it is less common. Public health policies and individual beliefs influence its prevalence.

Health considerations: Research has identified potential health benefits, such as a lower risk of urinary tract infections in infancy and a reduced risk of certain sexually transmitted infections, including HIV, in heterosexual men in high-prevalence settings. Circumcision may also lower the risk of penile cancer, though this remains rare. Risks of the procedure include bleeding, infection, pain, and, rarely, injury. Debates continue about long-term effects on sexual function and sensation, with high-quality studies generally showing no substantial difference, though findings vary.

Ethical and legal aspects: Decisions about circumcision often involve parental consent for minors and considerations of bodily autonomy, cultural or religious obligations, medical indications, and public health perspectives.