Snip the Tip

Infant Male Circumcision and Religious, Cultural, and Health Agendas

Abstract

Male circumcision originated as a covenant of God with Abraham in biblical times. This practice is rooted in the Jewish and Islamic religions as both claim ancestry with Abraham. Although neonatal male circumcision was mostly performed in these cultures, it became a common practice in the United States in the 1800s. As this is not medically necessary, the frequency of male circumcision is decreasing in some parts of the world, although circumcision in older men is increasing because of the health benefits reported. Although there are several techniques to perform the procedure, pain management during and after the procedure is important. The nurse must ensure that the infant is the right candidate for the procedure, support the parental decision, and monitor the infant for any complications. Research around male circumcision on the long-term effects, reduction of complications, and economic and health benefits earlier in life may be important.