MALE CIRCUMCISION

QUESTION
What do you think about male circumcision? In your view, what are the pros and cons. Have you ever
discussed the issue with someone else? How does your cultural perspective and/or religion affect your
viewpoint? Do you think you would see the issue differently if you had been raised in a different culture?

ANSWER
Although I don’t have a penis, If I did I personally wouldn’t want to be circumcised. I
think it should be a personal choice because I don’t think there has been any data that proves
circumcision as being majorly beneficial. I know the operation is very popular in the U.S. and in
religious ceremonies, and many assume it’s medically recommended for baby boys. However I
don’t think those involved know the history of why it’s so commonly performed and why it’s not
always necessary. For example, the book mentions “the AAP concludes that the benefits are “not
great enough to recommend routine circumcision for all male newborns”(Knox & Milstein,
2017, p.93). Parents should always be informed when making such a big decision, not just told to
do what’s most common among new parents. I believe it’s also important to respect your child’s
future by allowing them to make decisions about their bodies when they’re capable of doing so.
The book explains how making this choice for you child may affect them later on by saying,
“Some circumcised males report distress their foreskin has been removed and do not agree with
the presumed cosmetic advantage” (Knox & Milstein, 2017, p.93).
I believe there are many pros with keeping the foreskin attached to the penis. The
foreskin helps with multiple sexual functions and also helps maintain the general health of the
penis. The foreskin can prevent the head of the penis from becoming calloused, which can lead
to the loss of sensitivity over time. This often occurs when males are circumcised. (Jewell, 2018.
p.1) The only cons associated with not being circumcised is the possible repercussion of the
social stigma that you’re “different” or less than because your foreskin is still attached. I’ve
discussed this issue with my boyfriend who was never circumcised. He once felt awkward for
not being circumcised because among his friends he was the only one who wasn’t. Although now
as an adult, he harbors confidence and appreciates his body as it is. I am glad he has a positive
sexual self-concept and a strong sexual self-efficacy.(Knox & Milstein, 2017, p.8)
My mother chose not to circumcise both of my brothers, so I would assume that’s where
my perspective originated. I do believe that if I had been raised in a household of any faith, I
would have a different outlook. For example, my friend was raised Jewish and whenever we
would discuss circumcision she would always be expressively against it. Not only was it against
her faith, she also added that the penis looked wrong with foreskin and did not find it attractive.
There’s nothing wrong with having personal preferences but I don’t think it’s fair to judge
anyone’s appearance because let’s face it, they didn’t chose to look a certain way. If you really
think about it, we don’t have control over what family or faith we are born into. Therefore I
believe it’s important to maintain an open-minded outlook, especially when it comes to genitalia.
Reference List
Knox, D., & Milstein, S. (2017). Human Sexuality: Making Informed Decisions (5th ed.) [with
Salt Lake Community College supplement].Redding, CA: BVT Publishing
Jewell, Tim (2018). “Circumcised vs Uncircumcised: Pros and Cons to Consider.” Healthline, 28
March 2018, pp. 1–1.