Health Benefits of Circumcision - Abdi Waluyo Hospital

By : Geraldus Sigap

Circumcision is a surgical procedure that involves the removal of the foreskin, the skin covering the tip of the penis. It is one of the oldest medical practices, performed for cultural, religious, and medical reasons across different societies. Medical research has shown that it can offer several health benefits. Understanding the advantages and potential considerations can help individuals and parents make informed decisions about the procedure.

The Medical Benefits of Circumcision

Circumcision has been associated with various health benefits, ranging from improved hygiene. Medical experts and global health organizations, including the World Health Organization (WHO) and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), recognize circumcision as a procedure that can contribute to better public health outcomes.

Improved Hygiene and Reduced Risk of Infections

One of the most immediate benefits of circumcision is improved genital hygiene. The foreskin can trap bacteria, sweat, and other substances, making it a potential site for infections if not cleaned properly. Circumcision eliminates this concern by making it easier to maintain cleanliness, reducing the risk of infections such as balanitis, which is the inflammation of the head of the penis.

Uncircumcised men are also more prone to developing smegma, a buildup of oils and dead skin cells under the foreskin. If left uncleaned, smegma can cause irritation and sometimes leading to infection. Circumcision helps prevent such complications by removing the area where these buildups commonly occur.

Circumcision in Adults: When is it Recommended?

While circumcision is commonly performed during infancy, some men undergo the procedure later in life due to medical reasons or personal preference. In adults, circumcision is often recommended for individuals experiencing chronic infections, phimosis, or other urological issues that affect daily comfort. Some men also choose circumcision for its hygiene and health benefits later in life.

Adult circumcision requires a slightly longer recovery period compared to infant circumcision. Most men can resume normal activities within a few weeks, but doctors usually recommend avoiding strenuous exercise and sexual activity until the surgical site is fully healed.

Female circumcision, also known as female genital cutting (FGC), is a cultural practice rather than a medical necessity. Unlike male circumcision, which has been linked to certain health benefits, female circumcision offers no medical advantages and is not recommended by health professionals. In some regions of Indonesia, particularly in rural areas, female circumcision is still practiced, often as a symbolic ritual with minimal cutting. However, organizations such as the World Health Organization (WHO) and the Indonesian Ministry of Health discourage the practice due to its potential risks, including infection, pain, scarring, childbirth complications, and long-term psychological distress.

While some communities associate female circumcision with religious or traditional beliefs, Islamic scholars and medical experts emphasize that it is not a religious requirement. The United Nations (UN) and international health agencies classify the practice as unnecessary and potentially harmful. Unlike male circumcision, which is a personal health decision, female circumcision is increasingly discouraged as awareness grows. Medical professionals encourage safe and evidence-based health practices, emphasizing that female circumcision is not needed for hygiene, religion, or medical reasons.

Expert Urological Care at RS Abdi Waluyo

For those considering circumcision, consulting an experienced urologist is essential to ensure a safe and comfortable procedure. RS Abdi Waluyo provides expert urological care, offering both pediatric and adult circumcision with modern surgical techniques to minimize discomfort and speed up recovery.

The urology specialists at RS Abdi Waluyo perform circumcision under high medical standards, ensuring precision and patient comfort. Whether the procedure is done for medical, personal, or cultural reasons, the hospital’s team provides comprehensive pre-operative and post-operative care to support patients throughout the healing process.

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