Circumcision: Age Requirements and Parental Consent

Q: Circumcision: Age Requirements and Parental Consent

Hello： If personal hygiene is not an issue and it does not affect sexual activity, circumcision may not be necessary. <br>As for the surgical cost, it is not covered by health insurance and will need to be paid out-of-pocket, approximately 6,000 NTD, with the actual fee depending

Circumcision

Hello, I would like to ask if there is a cost for circumcision and whether one must be at least 20 years old to undergo the procedure? If under 20, is it necessary to go with a parent? However, I don't want my parents to know.
What options do doctors have in this situation?

Xiao Kai, 10~19 year old female. Ask Date: 2006/11/16

Dr. Lai Ronghao reply Urology

Hello: If personal hygiene is not an issue and it does not affect sexual activity, circumcision may not be necessary.
As for the surgical cost, it is not covered by health insurance and will need to be paid out-of-pocket, approximately 6,000 NTD, with the actual fee depending on the hospital's pricing standards.
A surgical consent form must be filled out prior to the procedure, and if the patient is under 18 years old, it must be signed by a legal guardian or family member.
If you have any questions, it is recommended to visit a urology outpatient clinic for further examination and treatment.
Thank you!

Reply Date: 2006/11/16

More Info

Circumcision, or the surgical removal of the foreskin from the penis, is a procedure that can be performed for various reasons, including medical, religious, or cultural. In the United States, the age at which an individual can consent to this procedure varies by state and is influenced by several factors, including the patient's age, the reason for the circumcision, and the medical necessity.

Typically, minors (those under 18 years of age) require parental consent to undergo circumcision. This means that if you are under 18, you would generally need to have a parent or guardian present to provide consent for the procedure. However, some states allow minors aged 16 or 17 to consent to certain medical procedures without parental involvement, but this is not universally applicable to circumcision. Therefore, if you are under 18 and wish to have a circumcision, it is likely that your parents would need to be informed and provide consent.

If you are 18 years old or older, you can make the decision to undergo circumcision without needing parental consent. At this age, you are considered an adult and can make your own medical decisions. The cost of circumcision can vary widely depending on factors such as the healthcare provider, the facility where the procedure is performed, and whether it is done for medical reasons or as an elective procedure. It's essential to check with your insurance provider, as some plans may cover the cost of circumcision if it is deemed medically necessary.

If you are concerned about discussing this with your parents, consider the following options:
1. Consult with a Healthcare Provider: Speak with a doctor or a urologist about your desire for circumcision. They can provide you with information about the procedure, its benefits, and potential risks. They may also be able to guide you on how to approach the conversation with your parents.

2. Confidentiality: In some cases, healthcare providers may offer confidential consultations for minors. You can inquire whether your local clinic or hospital has policies that allow for private discussions about your health without parental involvement.

3. Counseling Services: If you feel uncomfortable discussing this with your parents, consider seeking the help of a counselor or therapist. They can provide support and help you navigate the conversation with your parents.

4. Educational Resources: Sometimes, providing your parents with educational materials about circumcision can help them understand your perspective and the reasons behind your decision. This may facilitate a more open discussion.

5. Support Groups: Look for support groups or forums where individuals share their experiences regarding circumcision. Hearing from others who have gone through similar situations may provide you with insights and strategies for discussing your wishes with your parents.

In summary, if you are under 18, parental consent is typically required for circumcision. If you are 18 or older, you can make the decision independently. It's crucial to communicate openly with your healthcare provider and consider seeking support if you feel hesitant about discussing this matter with your parents.

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