Willingly inflicting pain on our little ones. Unthinkable, isn't it? Until you take them for their first immunization shots and have to hold them close as the pediatrician sticks them with a needle and they scream their little lungs out.
Having all girls, I wasn't faced with the issue of whether or not to circumcise my infants. That's one of the advantages of having a girl! But for those of you who will be having boys in the future, this is a decision you'll have to make. Of course, if circumcision is part of your religious heritage, there will be no debate. However, this is one issue many parents agonize over. Should we, or shouldn't we, they wonder.
There are some risks involved with circumcision, such as the possibility of excessive bleeding and infection. However, the health benefits include a decreased risk of UTIs (urinary tract infections) and penile cancer. There is also some speculation that circumcision can possibly reduce the risk of HIV.
The decision whether or not to circumcise is up to the parents alone...not the grandparents or other well-meaning relatives and friends and not the doctors. The best thing for parents to do, prior to the birth of their baby, is to research this controversial issue and make an educated choice.
Of course, no one wants to put their baby through unnecessary pain. But sometimes we have to expose them to pain for their own good.
Which leads us to another question: to pierce or not to pierce....let's see. Risk factors versus health benefits: possible infection and bleeding (not to mention willingly inflicting pain on a child) versus...hmmm...can't think of a single health benefit. I guess it's rather clear how I feel about piercing a helpless baby's ears. Just a thought.
Keeping it healthy,
Hana
How do 350 million European men live and thrive without being circumcised? Why are the STD rates in the US higher than in Europe? What is the purpose of the forsekin? These are things to think about before you agree to cut something off your newborn that maybe shouldn't be cut off at all. Green Grandma is right. Do your research. Prepare to have your world turned upside down.
ReplyDeleteThanks for your comment. Research is so important, not only for parents as they make decisions about their children, but also for each of us as it's necessary for us to be our own advocates when it comes to our health. Don't count on the doctors to always steer you in the right direction.
ReplyDeleteFortunately, it is NOT a given anymore that religion dictates whether baby boys will be cut. There are large groups of Jewish and Muslim parents who are opting to keep their sons intact.
ReplyDeleteI agree that parents should research. Most parents have no idea that there are *more* benefits to keeping their sons intact than to cut them.
The foreskin is a vital part of a healthy sexual organ. I do disagree with one point you made - it should not be up to parents - it should be up to every single male once they have reached an age to research the issue and make a decision for themselves. Parents should not rob any child of having a whole penis.