Circumcision is a surgery to remove the foreskin from the penis. It is an elective procedure performed on the majority of newborn males in the United States. It is usually done in the first two days of life but can be performed at any age. Side effects of circumcision are rare, but they can occur. The risk of side effects increases with the age of the male. You must be alert for complications until the penis has completely healed.
Bleeding
A small amount of bleeding is normal for up to 48 hours after circumcision. A spot in the diaper the size of a quarter is to be expected. Contact the physician if excessive bleeding occurs. She may need to examine the patient and take measures to control the bleeding.
Infection
The surgical site can become infected. Monitor for redness, swelling, fever, pus or a foul-smelling discharge. Contact your physician if you notice any of these symptoms. She may order antibiotics in topical or oral form. She may advise you to treat the fever with an antipyretic such as acetaminophen.
Inability to Void
A more serious possible side effect of circumcision is the inability to pass urine. If your son has not voided within six to eight hours after the surgery, contact your physician. After examination, she may need to make a surgical adjustment.
Skin Irritation
The skin of the newly exposed glans can become irritated and reddened by ammonia in the urine or the pressure of a diaper or undergarment. Treat this by keeping the site clean with water and add petroleum jelly after each voiding and cleansing. Contact the physician if the irritation persists for more than two days or worsens.
Improper Healing
According to the Mayo Clinic, "the remaining foreskin may reattach to the end of the penis", requiring surgical correction. If the site has not healed within two weeks or seems to be healing abnormally, contact your physician. She may wish to conduct an examination.
