Circumcision, besides its cultural and religious origins, also attracts attention with its medical advantages. It can reduce the risk of urinary tract infections in babies, contribute to preventing sexually transmitted diseases, and facilitate genital hygiene. The World Health Organization has recommended circumcision as a strategy for HIV prevention in certain regions. However, this decision should be based on individual, cultural, and health-related factors.
Circumcision, a procedure involving the removal of the foreskin from the penis, has been a subject of debate due to its cultural, religious, and medical effects. This article discusses the necessity and benefits of circumcision from a medical perspective.
Infection Prevention in Infants:
Circumcision is associated with a decreased risk of urinary tract infections in infancy.
It has been shown to provide significant protective benefits in the early stages of life.
Hygiene Care:
Circumcision facilitates genital hygiene by reducing the accumulation of bacteria and other pathogens beneath the foreskin.
Prevention of Diseases:
In 1990, the World Health Organization recommended mass circumcision in Africa to combat sexually transmitted infections like HIV and justified its effectiveness.
Studies also indicate that circumcision reduces the risk of penile cancer in men and cervical cancer in their partners.
Religious and Cultural Reasons:
It is widely practiced as a religious ritual among Muslim and Jewish communities.
In Western countries, it is increasingly being embraced due to its medical and hygiene-related benefits.
Western Trends:
In countries like the United States and certain regions of Europe, circumcision is prevalent even among the non-religious population due to its health benefits.
While circumcision is not universally necessary, it provides significant medical and hygiene advantages. Decisions regarding circumcision should be made in consultation with healthcare professionals, taking into account individual circumstances and cultural practices.
