Should You Consider Circumcision? Common Questions Answered

Is circumcision necessary?

Hello doctor, I have some questions about circumcision! I am 22 years old and have never been circumcised.
A few weeks ago, I went to a hot spring with my brother, and we suddenly talked about how circumcision can make the penis appear larger.
My brother was circumcised when he was younger, and his does look bigger.
I would like to ask you:
1.
Based on your experience, if my brother's penis is larger before erection, will it also be larger after erection?
2.
If I decide to get circumcised now, will my penis still grow? Why do circumcised individuals appear to have larger penises?
3.
My girlfriend often experiences vaginal inflammation.
Sometimes, when I use my hand to touch her vagina, she gets inflamed.
Other times, even when I briefly penetrate without a condom, she also gets inflamed.
I make sure to clean under my foreskin thoroughly every day.
Could her inflammation be related to me?
4.
Do I need to get circumcised? Would you recommend it? I can easily retract my foreskin completely without any issues and I regularly clean it.
Sometimes, when I use a little water to masturbate, I notice a white substance that looks like skin; what does that mean? Thank you for your answers, doctor!

Mr. Wu, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2009/06/04

Dr. Liu Jianting reply Urology

1.
Not necessarily.
2.
That's not the case.
3.
Not necessarily, but most of it is related to her own issues.
4.
It's normal! If you're concerned, please take her to a urologist for an examination, and also have your girlfriend see a gynecologist.

Reply Date: 2009/06/04

More Info

When considering circumcision, it's important to address several common questions and concerns that individuals may have. Based on your inquiry, let's break down the questions and provide a comprehensive overview.

1. Does circumcision affect the size of the penis?
Your brother's observation about his penis appearing larger after circumcision is a common belief, but it’s essential to clarify that circumcision itself does not increase the actual size of the penis. The perception of increased size may stem from the removal of the foreskin, which can sometimes make the glans (the head of the penis) more prominent. This visibility can create an illusion of size, especially when comparing an uncircumcised penis, where the foreskin covers the glans. However, the actual length and girth of the penis do not change due to circumcision.

2. Will my penis still grow if I get circumcised now?
Circumcision does not affect the growth of the penis. The penis typically reaches its full size during puberty, and by the age of 22, most individuals have completed their growth. Therefore, undergoing circumcision at this age will not influence any further growth. The idea that circumcision leads to a larger penis size is largely anecdotal and not supported by scientific evidence.

3. Could my circumcision be related to my girlfriend's vaginal infections?
It’s possible that your girlfriend's recurrent vaginal infections could be related to several factors, including hygiene practices, sensitivity, or allergies. While proper hygiene is crucial, infections can also arise from various sources, including bacteria or yeast. If you are maintaining good hygiene by regularly cleaning under the foreskin, it is less likely that your circumcision status is the direct cause of her infections. However, if you are experiencing any unusual discharge or irritation, it would be wise to consult a healthcare professional for a thorough evaluation.

4. Do I need circumcision?
The decision to undergo circumcision is highly personal and can depend on various factors, including medical, cultural, and personal preferences. Since you mentioned that you can easily retract your foreskin and maintain proper hygiene, there may not be a medical necessity for circumcision. However, if you have concerns about recurrent infections, phimosis (difficulty retracting the foreskin), or other issues, it would be beneficial to discuss these with a healthcare provider. They can provide tailored advice based on your specific situation.

5. What does the white substance under the foreskin mean?
The white substance you are observing is likely smegma, a combination of dead skin cells, oils, and moisture that can accumulate under the foreskin. It is a normal occurrence, especially if the area is not cleaned regularly. While smegma itself is not harmful, maintaining good hygiene by cleaning the area daily can help prevent any potential irritation or infection.

In conclusion, the decision to circumcise should be made after careful consideration of the benefits and potential drawbacks. If you are experiencing any discomfort, recurrent infections, or have specific concerns, it is advisable to consult a urologist or healthcare provider. They can provide you with personalized recommendations based on your health history and current situation. Remember, every individual’s circumstances are unique, and what works for one person may not be necessary for another.

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