What it is
Circumcision is removal of the foreskin, if you chose it. Care depends on the method. With a Gomco or Mogen clamp, the tip is left raw. You coat it with petroleum jelly on gauze at each diaper change for about a week. With a Plastibell, a plastic ring stays on and falls off in 5 to 10 days. No jelly is needed. Do not pull the ring.
What's typical
The tip looks red and swollen for two or three days. A soft yellow film forms by day two. It is part of healing, not pus. A few drops of blood the first day are common. Healing is done in 7 to 10 days. Pee should keep coming at the normal rate.
What's known
The AAP's 2012 statement says the benefits outweigh the risks but not by enough to recommend it for every boy. It calls the choice a family one. Ask what pain relief was used.
What helps
- Fasten diapers loosely over the area for the first few days.
- Warm water and a cotton ball to clean. No wipes on the tip until healed.
- Skin-to-skin and a feed right after are the main comfort tools.
When to call someone
- Nowbleeding larger than a quarter that does not stop with pressure, no wet diaper in 8 hours, a fever, or a ring that slid onto the shaft.
- Todayspreading redness, swelling that gets worse after day three, thick cloudy pus, or a bad smell.
- At your next visitthe ring is still on after two weeks, or skin seems to stick to the head.
Who helps
Tools: Postpartum Prep Checklist
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Sources
- American Academy of Pediatrics — Circumcision policy statement and technical report (2012)
- American Academy of Pediatrics, HealthyChildren.org — Caring for your son after circumcision
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