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Circumcision: A Complete Guide to Your Baby's Aftercare Needs
It’s estimated that about 58% of male newborns in the United States undergo circumcision. If you’ve decided to have your baby circumcised for cultural, religious, or health reasons, you want to know how to take care of him after the procedure.
Dr. Margaret Lubega here at First Pediatric Care Center in Gastonia, North Carolina, regularly performs circumcisions on newborns and offers support for their aftercare. Here are her practical tips for promoting healing during your baby’s recovery process.
The circumcision decision
Circumcision is a common surgical procedure performed on newborn boys to remove the foreskin covering the tip of the penis. The decision to circumcise your baby is incredibly personal.
It’s often done for cultural, religious, or medical reasons, including reduced risk of developing urinary tract infections and contracting sexually transmitted diseases, particularly human immunodeficiency virus (HIV). Our team at First Pediatric Care Center can answer any questions you have about the procedure.
While the procedure itself is relatively quick, proper aftercare can prevent complications and promote healing.
Circumcision aftercare
Here's what you need to know about caring for your baby after circumcision:
Keep the area clean
For the first few days after the procedure, gently clean the area around the penis with warm water and a mild soap. Avoid using wipes or rubbing alcohol, as these can irritate your baby’s skin.
Use petroleum jelly
After cleaning, apply a thin layer of petroleum jelly or antibiotic ointment to the tip of your baby’s penis to keep it moist and prevent the diaper from sticking.
Change diapers frequently
To prevent infection, change your baby's diaper frequently and avoid using tight-fitting diapers or clothing that could rub against the circumcision site.
Pain management
If your baby experiences some discomfort after the procedure, you can offer pain relief by giving him acetaminophen or ibuprofen as directed by our office.
Signs of infection
Although the circumcision site should heal naturally with no problem, you should be aware of signs of possible infection. These include increased redness, swelling, or discharge from the circumcision site. If you notice any of these symptoms, contact our office immediately.
Following circumcision, you should also follow any specific instructions provided by Dr.Lubega for caring for your baby's circumcision site.
Recovery time
Every baby is unique, and your child’s recovery time may differ from others. Some babies heal quickly with minimal discomfort, while others may require a little more time and attention. Trust your instincts and don't hesitate to reach out to us if you have any concerns or questions.
We’re here to help you care for all aspects of your baby’s health, including after circumcision. With proper care and attention, your baby will be on the road to a smooth recovery in no time.
Call First Pediatric Care Center or use this website to schedule an appointment if you have questions about circumcision aftercare or other aspects of your baby’s health.
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