Etymologically the word circumcision is derived from the Latin "circumcidere" which means "to cut around". It consists of a surgical operation where the foreskin (mobile skin fold that covers and protects the glans of the human penis) is partially or totally removed, uncovered. The technique used for removal is very common, only the foreskin is opened and separated from the glans. Sometimes anesthesia is used to decrease pain. It is one of the most common surgical interventions in the world. Circumcision is performed for three basic reasons: religious, medical, and prophylactic.
There are some conditions that can cause the practice of a circumcision, among them are: phimosis, which consists of the narrowing of the preputial opening, which prevents the foreskin from retracing behind the glans. Circumcision to treat phimosis is common to be performed after three years of age, since mostly the tightness of the foreskin before that age can change. After three years, the same children can, through their daily hygiene and later with masturbation, correct most of the suspected phimosis.
Circumcision becomes necessary when phimosis causes discomfort, infection, or pain; It can also occur if the frenulum of the penis is very short and causes pain or bleeding at the time of erection.
Paraphimosis is also a reason for the practice of a circumcision, this condition occurs when the foreskin is forcibly retracted, it cannot be stretched over the glans, remaining behind it. This surgical intervention is done on an outpatient basis, in children general or local anesthesia is applied (depending on the case), and in adults, local anesthesia. The duration of the operation is between 15 0 30 minutes.
In some cultures, circumcision is part of an initiation ritual, in which males are circumcised shortly after birth. This ceremony is performed in countries like Africa, New Guinea, Australia.
Muslims and Jews practiced circumcision almost compulsory, since for them this act symbolizes the covenant between Abraham and God. As for Christianity, it maintains a neutral position regarding the practice of circumcision, since it does not force its faithful to perform it, but neither does it prohibit it.
