Post-Circumcision Care: When to Seek Medical Attention? - Urology

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Post-circumcision care


Hello doctor, two weeks ago I underwent a circumcision procedure.
In the past couple of days, I noticed some yellow discoloration on the gauze when changing the dressing, but there is no redness, swelling, or pain at the wound site.
When changing the dressing, I first use a sterile cotton swab with saline to clean the area, and then apply antibiotic ointment.
Should I return for a follow-up appointment, or should I just continue to observe?

Niming, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2021/11/04

Dr. Du Shixi reply Urology


Hello: It has been two weeks since the surgery, and I noticed some yellow discoloration on the gauze during the dressing change in the last couple of days, but there is no redness, swelling, or pain at the wound site.
Does this mean the wound is healing? If it is fully healed, there should be no issue with the dressing change, as I will first use a sterile cotton swab with saline to clean the area before applying antibiotic ointment.
Do I need to return for a follow-up appointment? Should I continue to observe, or is a follow-up after surgery necessary? Wishing you good health.

Reply Date: 2021/11/04

More Info


Post-circumcision care is crucial for ensuring proper healing and preventing complications. After a circumcision, it is normal to have some discharge, which can be yellowish in color, especially if it is serous fluid or a small amount of pus. However, the presence of yellow discharge does warrant careful monitoring, particularly in the absence of other symptoms such as redness, swelling, or pain.

In your case, since you mentioned that the wound is not red or swollen and you are not experiencing any pain, it is a positive sign that the healing process may be progressing well. The practice of cleaning the area with a sterile saline solution and applying an antibiotic ointment is appropriate and can help prevent infection. However, there are a few key points to consider regarding when to seek medical attention:
1. Increased Discharge: If the yellow discharge increases significantly or changes in color to a more concerning hue (such as green or brown), this could indicate an infection that may require medical evaluation.

2. Signs of Infection: Look for signs of infection, which include increased redness, swelling, warmth around the surgical site, or the development of a fever. If any of these symptoms occur, it is essential to contact your healthcare provider promptly.

3. Pain Management: If you start to experience pain that is not manageable with over-the-counter pain relief, or if the pain worsens, this could be a sign of a complication.

4. Healing Progress: Generally, circumcision wounds should show signs of healing within a week or two. If you notice that the wound is not healing or if it appears to be getting worse, it is advisable to seek medical attention.

5. Follow-Up Appointments: It is always a good idea to follow up with your surgeon or healthcare provider as recommended. If you were given specific instructions regarding follow-up visits, it is best to adhere to those guidelines.

6. Personal Comfort: If you feel uncertain or anxious about the healing process, it is perfectly acceptable to reach out to your healthcare provider for reassurance or further advice. They can provide you with tailored recommendations based on your specific situation.

In summary, while the yellow discharge you are observing may not be alarming, it is essential to remain vigilant for any changes that could indicate a problem. If you have any doubts or if your symptoms change, do not hesitate to contact your healthcare provider. They can assess your situation more thoroughly and determine if a follow-up visit is necessary. Remember, proactive communication with your healthcare team is key to ensuring a smooth recovery process.

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