Circumcision

Circumcision for the external genital/penis is a surgery to remove the foreskin, a fold of skin that covers and protects the rounded tip of the external genitals/penis. After the foreskin is removed, it cannot be put back on again.

Circumcision has both risks and benefits and there is no medical evidence that a circumcised external genitals/penis is any cleaner than a non-circumcised one. It is up to you to decide whether or not you want to have your male child circumcised. Today, circumcision is considered a non-essential procedure and is not covered by provincial healthcare plans. If you choose not to circumcise, it is important to keep your baby's uncircumcised external genitals/penis clean.

To learn more about the circumcision procedure, the benefits and risks of the surgery, caring for and keeping uncircumcised external genitals/penis clean, and other information that may help with your decision making, please visit the links below.

External genitals/vagina mutilation (sometimes called female circumcision) is illegal in Canada. It is a painful operation that involves removing part or all of the baby or young female child's external genitals/clitoris and labia and sewing the opening up, leaving a small hole for urine or blood to pass through. This is a harmful and risky procedure with no medical benefit. Please see the below links for more information on external genital/vaginal mutilation.

• HealthLinkBC - Circumcision

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• HealthLinkBC - Circumcision: Should I keep my son's penis natural? Decision guide

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• The MotHERS Program - Circumcision risks and benefits

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• Ontario Human Rights Commission - Laws about female genital mutilation in Canada

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• About Kids Health - Newborn circumcision: Caring for your child at home after the procedure