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Although there are many argued benefits of circumcision, it's important to remember that, as with all forms of cosmetic surgery, there are also many strong arguments against it. And maybe in many ways these arguments generally outweigh the positive effects.

REASONS FOR CIRCUMCISION

There are situations when circumcision appears to be the best option. These are health reasons (to reduce the risk of infection and disease, such as urinary tract infection (UTI); cancer of the penis; sexually transmitted diseases/infections (STDs/STIs); and general hygiene reasons) and medical reasons (scarring of the foreskin that stops it from retracting (phimosis); recurrent inflammation or persistent infections of the penis; a tight foreskin; or a long foreskin, which can also cause discomfort).

There are also religious reasons for circumcision, which is practiced in Judaism and Islam as a symbolic bond, or covenant, with God and (in Islam) to follow the example of the Prophet Muhammad (pbuh).

REASONS AGAINST CIRCUMCISION

But many times, circumcision is a choice for the parents (or the actual person if they are old enough). And in these situations, it's possible to make the wrong decision.

1. It's important to remember that the operation, like all forms of surgery, carries some risk. There is always some risk of complications, which are increased if the surgery is not essential.

2. Surgically removing the foreskin could reduce the sensitivity of the tip of the penis which can reduce sexual pleasure. Although this obviously wouldn't affect babies and young children, it's an example of problems that can arise later in life.

3. As with all operations, there is likely to be pain and discomfort for some time afterwards. And there won't be any escape from it unless the doctors also make some other ways to pass urine without using the penis. If parents are having their baby circumcised, there will also be a lot of crying and stress to cope with in addition to problems their child could experience.

4. Although problems are circumcision are considered to be quite rare, there may be minor complications and worrying signs, even if they aren't serious. These include: being unable to urinate normally up to 6 hours after the operation; persistent bleeding; redness around the tip of the penis which can worsen up to 5 days after the operation; and yellow discharge or coating around the tip of the penis. In even rarer circumstances, the foreskin may be cut too long or too short resulting in further pain

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