{"id":2852,"date":"2026-03-10T11:41:33","date_gmt":"2026-03-10T11:41:33","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/berkanresorlu.com.tr\/?p=2852"},"modified":"2026-10-13T16:11:49","modified_gmt":"2026-10-13T16:11:49","slug":"what-is-newborn-circumcision-how-is-circumcision-performed-in-babies","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/berkanresorlu.com.tr\/en\/what-is-newborn-circumcision-how-is-circumcision-performed-in-babies\/","title":{"rendered":"Newborn Circumcision: Procedure, Benefits, Risks, and Recovery"},"content":{"rendered":"<p>Newborn circumcision is a surgical procedure performed in male babies during the first weeks after birth and medically offers faster healing and a low complication rate. Since tissue elasticity is high during this period, the recovery process is generally comfortable and short.<\/p>\n<p>Among the advantages of newborn circumcision are a rapid healing process, low infection risk, and minimal bleeding. The fact that it can be performed under local anesthesia eliminates risks associated with general anesthesia and allows postoperative care to be managed more easily.<\/p>\n<p>The care process after newborn circumcision is directly related to maintaining hygiene and complying with the doctor\u2019s recommendations. Keeping the area clean, using the recommended creams regularly, and being careful during diaper changes significantly reduce the risk of complications.<\/p>\n<p>The issue of when newborn circumcision is preferred varies depending on families\u2019 cultural and medical evaluations. This procedure, which is recommended to be performed early from a urological perspective, contributes to preventing some infection and phimosis risks that may occur at later ages.<\/p>\n<div id=\"ez-toc-container\" class=\"ez-toc-v2_0_89 counter-hierarchy ez-toc-counter ez-toc-custom ez-toc-container-direction\">\n<div class=\"ez-toc-title-container\">\n<p class=\"ez-toc-title\" style=\"cursor:inherit\">Table of Contents<\/p>\n<span class=\"ez-toc-title-toggle\"><a href=\"#\" class=\"ez-toc-pull-right ez-toc-btn ez-toc-btn-xs ez-toc-btn-default ez-toc-toggle\" aria-label=\"Toggle Table of Content\"><span class=\"ez-toc-js-icon-con\"><span class=\"\"><span class=\"eztoc-hide\" style=\"display:none;\">Toggle<\/span><span class=\"ez-toc-icon-toggle-span\"><svg style=\"fill: #ffffff;color:#ffffff\" xmlns=\"http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg\" class=\"list-377408\" width=\"20px\" height=\"20px\" viewBox=\"0 0 24 24\" fill=\"none\"><path d=\"M6 6H4v2h2V6zm14 0H8v2h12V6zM4 11h2v2H4v-2zm16 0H8v2h12v-2zM4 16h2v2H4v-2zm16 0H8v2h12v-2z\" fill=\"currentColor\"><\/path><\/svg><svg style=\"fill: #ffffff;color:#ffffff\" class=\"arrow-unsorted-368013\" xmlns=\"http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg\" width=\"10px\" height=\"10px\" viewBox=\"0 0 24 24\" version=\"1.2\" baseProfile=\"tiny\"><path d=\"M18.2 9.3l-6.2-6.3-6.2 6.3c-.2.2-.3.4-.3.7s.1.5.3.7c.2.2.4.3.7.3h11c.3 0 .5-.1.7-.3.2-.2.3-.5.3-.7s-.1-.5-.3-.7zM5.8 14.7l6.2 6.3 6.2-6.3c.2-.2.3-.5.3-.7s-.1-.5-.3-.7c-.2-.2-.4-.3-.7-.3h-11c-.3 0-.5.1-.7.3-.2.2-.3.5-.3.7s.1.5.3.7z\"\/><\/svg><\/span><\/span><\/span><\/a><\/span><\/div>\n<nav><ul class='ez-toc-list ez-toc-list-level-1 ' ><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-1\" href=\"https:\/\/berkanresorlu.com.tr\/en\/what-is-newborn-circumcision-how-is-circumcision-performed-in-babies\/#What_Is_Newborn_Circumcision\" >What Is Newborn Circumcision?<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-2\" href=\"https:\/\/berkanresorlu.com.tr\/en\/what-is-newborn-circumcision-how-is-circumcision-performed-in-babies\/#How_Is_Newborn_Circumcision_Performed\" >How Is Newborn Circumcision Performed?<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-3\" href=\"https:\/\/berkanresorlu.com.tr\/en\/what-is-newborn-circumcision-how-is-circumcision-performed-in-babies\/#When_Should_Newborn_Circumcision_Be_Performed\" >When Should Newborn Circumcision Be Performed?<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-4\" href=\"https:\/\/berkanresorlu.com.tr\/en\/what-is-newborn-circumcision-how-is-circumcision-performed-in-babies\/#How_Long_Does_Newborn_Circumcision_Take\" >How Long Does Newborn Circumcision Take?<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-5\" href=\"https:\/\/berkanresorlu.com.tr\/en\/what-is-newborn-circumcision-how-is-circumcision-performed-in-babies\/#What_Are_the_Advantages_of_Newborn_Circumcision\" >What Are the Advantages of Newborn Circumcision?<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-6\" href=\"https:\/\/berkanresorlu.com.tr\/en\/what-is-newborn-circumcision-how-is-circumcision-performed-in-babies\/#In_Which_Situations_Should_Newborn_Circumcision_Not_Be_Performed\" >In Which Situations Should Newborn Circumcision Not Be Performed?<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-7\" href=\"https:\/\/berkanresorlu.com.tr\/en\/what-is-newborn-circumcision-how-is-circumcision-performed-in-babies\/#Until_When_Is_Newborn_Circumcision_Performed\" >Until When Is Newborn Circumcision Performed?<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-8\" href=\"https:\/\/berkanresorlu.com.tr\/en\/what-is-newborn-circumcision-how-is-circumcision-performed-in-babies\/#How_Should_Preparation_Before_Newborn_Circumcision_Be\" >How Should Preparation Before Newborn Circumcision Be?<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-9\" href=\"https:\/\/berkanresorlu.com.tr\/en\/what-is-newborn-circumcision-how-is-circumcision-performed-in-babies\/#What_Should_Be_Considered_After_Newborn_Circumcision\" >What Should Be Considered After Newborn Circumcision?<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-10\" href=\"https:\/\/berkanresorlu.com.tr\/en\/what-is-newborn-circumcision-how-is-circumcision-performed-in-babies\/#Controls_After_Newborn_Circumcision\" >Controls After Newborn Circumcision<\/a><\/li><\/ul><\/nav><\/div>\n<h2><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"What_Is_Newborn_Circumcision\"><\/span>What Is Newborn Circumcision?<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n<p>Newborn circumcision is a surgical procedure performed in the first days or weeks after the baby is born. In this procedure, the foreskin, which is the piece of skin covering the tip of the penis, is cut and removed in a sterile and controlled manner. Circumcision performed during the newborn period is a tradition practiced in many parts of the world both medically and culturally. While it is especially accepted as a religious duty in the Islamic world, it is also performed as a health-recommended procedure in some western countries.<\/p>\n<p>The physiological characteristics of newborn babies make the circumcision procedure relatively easier, faster, and more comfortable during this period. The skin tissue is thinner, healing capacity is higher, and the tendency for scarring is lower. This situation makes newborn circumcision more advantageous in terms of the comfort of both the baby and the family. In addition, since the pain threshold and memory development in babies are not fully established, the feeling of discomfort after the procedure remains minimal.<\/p>\n<p>From a medical perspective, newborn circumcision may reduce the risk of urinary tract infection, facilitate cleaning of the glans penis, and prevent some skin disorders. However, as with every surgical procedure, this application also requires careful preparation, an appropriate environment, and a specialist physician. Therefore, newborn circumcision should only be performed in babies whose health conditions are suitable and under sterile conditions.<\/p>\n<h2><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"How_Is_Newborn_Circumcision_Performed\"><\/span>How Is Newborn Circumcision Performed?<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n<p>The newborn circumcision procedure is applied with special techniques in babies and is generally performed under local anesthesia. Before the procedure, the baby is examined to check whether there is any anatomical disorder or infection. If there is a congenital curvature in the penile structure, an abnormality in the urinary opening (hypospadias), or blood clotting problems, the procedure may be postponed or recommended to be performed at another time.<\/p>\n<p>For circumcision, the baby is usually placed on a special circumcision table. The area is sterilized and the baby is calmed. Then local anesthesia is applied. In this way, the baby does not feel pain during the procedure. The foreskin is carefully cut with sterile instruments and bleeding is brought under control. After the procedure is completed, the area is cleaned with antiseptic solutions and a protective dressing is applied.<\/p>\n<p>In some modern clinics, the \u201cPlastibell\u201d method is preferred instead of the classic surgical method. In this method, a small plastic ring is placed on the foreskin. This ring compresses the skin, stops bleeding, and falls off spontaneously within a few days. This method facilitates sterilization and accelerates the healing process.<\/p>\n<p>Newborn circumcision usually takes between 10 and 15 minutes. After the procedure, the baby recovers in a short time, continues feeding, and in most cases does not need to stay in the hospital. However, the physician explains to the family in detail how wound care should be performed and what should be considered.<\/p>\n<h2><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"When_Should_Newborn_Circumcision_Be_Performed\"><\/span>When Should Newborn Circumcision Be Performed?<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n<p>The ideal time for newborn circumcision starts after the first 24 hours following birth and is generally recommended to be performed within the first 2 weeks. During this period, babies\u2019 healing process is very fast and the risk of infection is quite low. In addition, the newborn period is a time when babies are more resistant to pain and remember the procedure less.<\/p>\n<p>Some specialists recommend not performing circumcision within the first 24 hours after birth. The reason for this is that the baby needs to complete some physiological adaptations within the first day after birth. Procedures performed before basic functions such as blood sugar balance, body temperature control, and sucking reflex are established may increase the baby\u2019s stress level. Therefore, the most appropriate time is the period between the 2nd and 14th day after birth.<\/p>\n<p>If the baby was born prematurely, has low birth weight, or has any health problem, it may be necessary to wait for circumcision. The doctor determines the most appropriate time individually for each baby. However, in general, the newborn period is the most ideal time interval in terms of both medical and comfort aspects.<\/p>\n<h2><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"How_Long_Does_Newborn_Circumcision_Take\"><\/span>How Long Does Newborn Circumcision Take?<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n<p>Newborn circumcision is a very short surgical intervention. It is completed in an average of 10 to 20 minutes. This duration may vary according to the method applied and the anatomical structure of the baby. In some babies, bleeding control or anesthesia application may take a few more minutes. However, the procedure is usually completed on the same day and the baby returns home without staying in the hospital.<\/p>\n<p>After the procedure, the baby is kept under observation for a short time. During this process, whether there is bleeding, whether the baby urinates, and the general condition are checked. If everything is fine, the baby is discharged. The recovery process after newborn circumcision is also quite fast. The wound usually heals completely within 5 to 7 days.<\/p>\n<p>The most important point parents should pay attention to during this process is maintaining hygiene and keeping the area clean. In addition, the cream or ointment recommended by the doctor should be applied regularly. After newborn circumcision, babies\u2019 pain is usually mild and they relax within a few hours.<\/p>\n<h2><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"What_Are_the_Advantages_of_Newborn_Circumcision\"><\/span>What Are the Advantages of Newborn Circumcision?<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n<p>Newborn circumcision provides many benefits in terms of both health and hygiene. One of its most important advantages is that it reduces urinary tract infections. Studies show that the rate of urinary tract infection seen in circumcised babies during the first year is significantly lower. In addition, circumcision reduces the risk of glans penis inflammation (balanitis) and skin diseases in later ages.<\/p>\n<p>It also offers an important advantage in terms of hygiene. In circumcised individuals, the glans penis can be cleaned easily, which prevents bacterial accumulation and bad odor formation. In addition, it has been scientifically proven that the risk of transmission of some sexually transmitted diseases is also lower.<\/p>\n<p>Its cultural and psychological aspect cannot be ignored either. Newborn circumcision is accepted as a symbol of transition to masculinity in many societies. Performing it during infancy is more comfortable both physically and psychologically because the child does not experience this process at a conscious age.<\/p>\n<p>Another important advantage is the aesthetic appearance. Circumcision performed during the newborn period provides smoother healing and an aesthetic result due to the high elasticity of the skin.<\/p>\n<h2><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"In_Which_Situations_Should_Newborn_Circumcision_Not_Be_Performed\"><\/span>In Which Situations Should Newborn Circumcision Not Be Performed?<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n<p>Although newborn circumcision is generally a safe procedure, it should be postponed or not performed in some situations. If the baby has congenital penile anomalies (such as hypospadias or epispadias), circumcision should not be performed because this skin structure may be needed in corrective surgeries in the future. In addition, in babies with blood clotting disorders, the procedure may lead to a serious risk of bleeding. Therefore, before circumcision, it must be questioned whether there is a family history of hemophilia or similar diseases. If newborn jaundice is advanced or the baby is weak in terms of general health, the procedure should be postponed. If there are skin problems such as infection or rash, they should be treated before circumcision is performed. In addition, the timing of the procedure in premature babies should be determined by the doctor.<\/p>\n<p>In some cases, even if the baby appears healthy externally, it is not appropriate to perform circumcision before laboratory test results are completed. Especially the results of tests performed in the first days after birth should be awaited, and liver functions and blood values should be evaluated. If the baby\u2019s birth weight is very low, if the baby has difficulty regulating body temperature, or if the immune system is weak, the procedure should be postponed. In addition, in babies who have recently been vaccinated, since the body\u2019s defense system is active, it is recommended to plan circumcision a short time later. Considering all these factors is extremely important for both procedure safety and the baby\u2019s health.<\/p>\n<h2><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Until_When_Is_Newborn_Circumcision_Performed\"><\/span>Until When Is Newborn Circumcision Performed?<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n<p>Newborn circumcision is generally performed within the first four weeks after birth. This period is the most appropriate period in terms of both the baby\u2019s physiological and healing capacity. In the first weeks, the skin is thinner, blood vessels are smaller, and the healing process is much faster. In addition, during this period, babies\u2019 pain sensation is lower compared to adults and postoperative discomfort passes in a short time. After four weeks, the procedure can still be performed medically, but it is no longer called \u201cnewborn\u201d circumcision, but \u201cinfant period\u201d circumcision. When the baby is two months old, pain sensitivity increases, mobility rises, and the need for anesthesia becomes greater. Therefore, the first weeks are accepted as the most appropriate time period in terms of both medical and comfort aspects.<\/p>\n<p>Some families may want to postpone circumcision to later months for cultural, religious, or psychological reasons. However, doctors generally emphasize that performing it within the first month is much more advantageous in terms of healing. During this period, wound healing occurs faster, the infection risk is low, and the baby experiences the postoperative period much more comfortably. After the third month, the baby becomes more sensitive to the environment, movements increase, and since contact with the area may be more frequent during diaper changes, the care process may become more difficult.<\/p>\n<p>In circumcisions to be performed after the newborn period, general anesthesia may sometimes be required, which may prolong the procedure time and recovery period. In addition, as the baby grows, the skin tissue thickens, which requires a more careful surgical procedure. Therefore, the most appropriate time interval in terms of both medical safety and aesthetic result is the first two to four weeks after birth. Families planning without missing this period with the recommendation of the baby\u2019s doctor ensures that circumcision is performed in the healthiest way.<\/p>\n<h2><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"How_Should_Preparation_Before_Newborn_Circumcision_Be\"><\/span>How Should Preparation Before Newborn Circumcision Be?<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n<p>Preparations made before newborn circumcision are of great importance for the procedure to be safe and problem-free. First of all, the baby\u2019s general health condition should be evaluated by a pediatrician. If the baby has conditions such as jaundice, fever, infection, respiratory problem, or weight loss, the procedure should be postponed. In babies with suspected blood clotting disorder, necessary tests must also be performed. In addition, if there is a congenital abnormality in the penile structure (such as hypospadias), the procedure should not be applied because the foreskin may be necessary for future surgical repairs.<\/p>\n<p>The baby should not be full before circumcision; it is recommended that at least one hour has passed since the last feeding. This both ensures that the baby is comfortable during the procedure and prevents the possible risk of nausea. Before the procedure, the baby\u2019s diaper should be cleaned and the room temperature should be made appropriate. The area to be circumcised is sterilized with antiseptic solution and a calm environment is created for the baby to remain peaceful. Anesthesia is usually applied locally and the baby does not feel pain during the procedure.<\/p>\n<p>It is also important for parents to be calm and prepared during this process. The family\u2019s anxiety may be reflected on the baby without realizing it. The doctor should be consulted in advance, and information should be obtained about the procedure steps and postoperative care. Necessary materials, namely sterile gauze, antiseptic cream, and spare diapers, should be kept ready before the procedure. Thanks to proper preparation, newborn circumcision becomes an easier and more comfortable process both medically and psychologically.<\/p>\n<h2><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"What_Should_Be_Considered_After_Newborn_Circumcision\"><\/span>What Should Be Considered After Newborn Circumcision?<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n<p>Care after newborn circumcision is of great importance for the procedure to be completed safely and smoothly. From the first moment the baby is brought home, the circumcision area should be kept clean and dry. Diaper changes should be made frequently, and care should be taken to prevent urine or stool from coming into contact with the wound. By regularly applying the cream or ointments recommended by the doctor, the moisture balance of the wound should be preserved and healthy progression of crusting should be supported. During this period, tight clothes that may put pressure on the area should be avoided and the baby should be kept comfortable.<\/p>\n<p>Mild redness, swelling, and crusting during the first few days are considered normal. However, if bad odor, intense discharge, excessive bleeding, or increasing swelling is noticed in the area, a doctor should be consulted without delay. If the baby becomes restless while urinating or cannot urinate, this is also a condition that should be taken into consideration. The circumcision area should not be brought into contact with irritating products such as wet wipes, and sterile gauze or cotton should be used for cleaning. Applying a small amount of petroleum jelly to the diaper area prevents the wound from sticking to the diaper and helps the baby feel comfortable.<\/p>\n<p>The baby\u2019s fluid intake during the post-circumcision period also accelerates healing. Feeding breastfed babies more frequently dilutes urine and reduces the risk of infection. Bathing should not be performed for the first 48 hours, and afterward, short warm water baths should be preferred only with the doctor\u2019s approval. Gently drying the area minimizes the risk of irritation. The wound usually heals greatly within 5 to 7 days, crusts fall off, and the baby becomes completely comfortable. During this process, parents remaining calm, carefully following the doctor\u2019s recommendations, and not neglecting controls ensures that healing progresses smoothly.<\/p>\n<h2><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Controls_After_Newborn_Circumcision\"><\/span>Controls After Newborn Circumcision<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n<p>The first control after newborn circumcision is usually performed 2-3 days after the procedure. In this control, the wound site is examined, whether there are signs of infection is checked, and the dressing is renewed. It is important to stay in regular contact with the doctor until the healing process is completed.<\/p>\n<p>Complete healing occurs within 7 to 10 days. During this period, parents should be patient and strictly follow the doctor\u2019s recommendations. Controls after newborn circumcision allow possible complications to be noticed early.<\/p>\n<p>Newborn circumcision is a multifaceted application with both medical and cultural aspects. When performed at the right time, under the right conditions, and by expert hands, it is extremely beneficial for both the baby\u2019s health and the family\u2019s peace of mind. Although it may seem like a small procedure, it requires careful preparation and attentive care.<\/p>\n<p>Parents should be conscious during this process, remain loyal to the doctor\u2019s recommendations, and closely monitor the baby\u2019s healing process. Newborn circumcision is not only a tradition but also one of the first steps taken toward a healthy future.<\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>Newborn circumcision is a surgical procedure performed in male babies during the first weeks after birth and medically offers faster healing and a low complication rate. Since tissue elasticity is high during this period, the recovery process is generally comfortable and short. Among the advantages of newborn circumcision are a rapid healing process, low infection [&#8230;]\n","protected":false},"author":1,"featured_media":2851,"comment_status":"open","ping_status":"open","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"footnotes":""},"categories":[12],"tags":[],"class_list":["post-2852","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","has-post-thumbnail","hentry","category-general"],"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/berkanresorlu.com.tr\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/2852","targetHints":{"allow":["GET"]}}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/berkanresorlu.com.tr\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/berkanresorlu.com.tr\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/post"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/berkanresorlu.com.tr\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/users\/1"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/berkanresorlu.com.tr\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/comments?post=2852"}],"version-history":[{"count":3,"href":"https:\/\/berkanresorlu.com.tr\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/2852\/revisions"}],"predecessor-version":[{"id":5198,"href":"https:\/\/berkanresorlu.com.tr\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/2852\/revisions\/5198"}],"wp:featuredmedia":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/berkanresorlu.com.tr\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media\/2851"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/berkanresorlu.com.tr\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=2852"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/berkanresorlu.com.tr\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/categories?post=2852"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/berkanresorlu.com.tr\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/tags?post=2852"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}