Defending My Cause

I recently had the following comment on my blog by someone anonymous in response to my episiotomy post:

"My BFF did the Bradley method and did everything right and still needed an episiotomy, or as you call it, "the cut".

And to all the moms reading this who DON'T circumcise your sons, NOBODY is going to want to date them when they are older because uncircumcised penises are DISGUSTING! Especially when you're 80 and can't clean behind the foreskin. (I'm a nurse). Ugh, even the word foreskin makes me want to vomit. Gross!"

Although I believe this comment to be very derogatory and inappropriate, I would like to clarify any misguided thoughts and beliefs on the subjects of the Bradley Method, episiotomies, and circumcision.

The Bradley Method of childbirth education is a 12 week class that provides couples with information and education on how to have a spontaneous, unmedicated, vaginal birth. Couples come away with comprehensive information on topics such as medical vocabulary, nutrition, relaxation exercises, birth plans, bonding techniques, and staying healthy and low risk. Attending a childbirth class of any kind will not guarantee that you will or will not be faced with interventions during birth. Furthermore, women and their partners are responsible for relaying information and discussing expectations with their caregiver prior to the birth. Unfortunately, many doctors are still doing routine episiotomies for babies of any weight or presentation. For more information about The Bradley Method, visit their website, and for episiotomy information see my previous post.

Circumcision is a decision parents make based on personal, medical, or religious beliefs. The American Academy of Pediatrics and the American Medical Association do not recommend circumcision as a routine procedure. Statistics now show that 57% of babies born today are not being circumcised. However, parents need to feel free to make the decision that is right for them and their son. See my previous post for more information.

I have always wanted my blog to be informative and educational for all who desire to know more about pregnancy, natural childbirth and holistic healthcare. I understand that there are many ideas and opinions out. I encourage you to always research and be completely informed before making decisions that will affect you, your birth, and your family.

The Circumcision Decision

It wasn't until recently that I became fully aware of exactly what circumcision entailed. I had every intention of circumcising my son in the event that we would have one some day. Now that I am involved with childbirth, I understand what all is involved.

I am a big believer of being educated and informed before making decisions. I hope this post on circumcision will help you make an informed decision.

The Origin
Circumcision has been around for thousands of years. It originated in Africa and the Middle East. It was brought to the United States in the mid 1800's. Circumcision was believed to help curb masturbation which was thought to cause insanity and physical ailments. It was also once believed to prevent sexually transmitted diseases, but that theory has since been discredited.

What is circumcision?
Circumcision is the surgical removal of the foreskin that covers and protects the glans (or head) of the penis. It is performed by placing the baby securely on a table and injecting a local anesthetic into the penis. The foreskin is then separated from the glans with a medical instrument and held in place with a clamp while a vertical incision is made in the foreskin about one third of its length. To protect the glans, a metal or plastic bell is placed over the tip of the penis. The foreskin is placed back over the bell while the foreskin is removed. A protective lubricant is put on the area to promote the healing of the incision that takes approximately one week.

It should be known that there are no medical benefits to circumcision according to the American Academy of Pediatrics and the American Medical Association. In fact, the AAP states "1) circumcision is not essential to a child's well-being, 2) it is an elective procedure, 3) doctors should not coerce parents into choosing circumcision, and 4) parents should make a fully informed decision."

Does it hurt the baby?
Yes, it does hurt. The foreskin is made of thousands of tiny nerve endings. Even with anesthetic, circumcision is very painful for the baby.

Proper Hygiene
It was once believed that circumcision improved male hygiene. Circumcision does not make the penis any cleaner or healthier. With proper care and cleaning, it is perfectly safe to leave the foreskin intact. Proper hygiene should be taught to young boys whether they are circumcised or not. By age 18, the foreskin will usually be retractable from the glans on its own. It is important to not force the skin away from the glans. Hygiene for an intact foreskin is easy using these steps:

1. Without force, gently slip the foreskin back.
2. With warm water, carefully clean the glans and the inside for the foreskin.
3. Slip the foreskin back over the glans.

Frequently Asked Questions
Should my son look like his father?
Should brothers look the same?
Will my son be teased for not being circumcised?
What are the risks of being circumcised?
What are the risks of not being circumcised?
Does circumcision prevent disease?

I believe these are all good and important questions to ask before making the decision. Make yourself informed not matter what decision you make. If you have any questions, please feel free to let me know.

Additional Information
www.circumcision.org
www.nocircmn.org