Concerns After Circumcision: What to Do If Stitches Break? - Urology

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After undergoing a circumcision procedure, it's not uncommon to have concerns about the healing process, especially if you experience complications such as broken stitches. In your case, you mentioned that on the fifth day post-surgery, one of the stitches broke during an erection, resulting in a small amount of bleeding, which has since stopped. Here’s a comprehensive response to your concerns, along with some medical insights.


Immediate Steps to Take
1. Assess the Situation: Since you experienced a broken stitch and some bleeding, it’s essential to evaluate the extent of the injury. If the bleeding has stopped and the wound appears clean without signs of infection (such as increased redness, swelling, or discharge), you may not need immediate medical intervention. However, if the bleeding resumes or worsens, you should seek medical attention promptly.

2. Avoid Irritation: To prevent further complications, it’s crucial to avoid activities that could irritate the area. This includes avoiding erections, sexual activity, or any strenuous physical activity until you have consulted with your healthcare provider.

3. Monitor for Infection: Keep an eye on the surgical site for any signs of infection. Symptoms may include increased pain, swelling, redness, or discharge that is yellow or green. If you notice any of these symptoms, contact your doctor.


When to Seek Medical Attention
- Persistent Bleeding: If you experience ongoing bleeding or if the bleeding resumes after it has stopped, you should return to your healthcare provider.


- Severe Pain: If you experience significant pain that is not relieved by over-the-counter pain medications, this could indicate a complication that requires medical evaluation.

- Concerns About Additional Stitches Breaking: If you are worried about the remaining stitches, especially during erections, it is advisable to consult your doctor. They can assess the integrity of the remaining stitches and determine if any further intervention is necessary.


Potential Medical Interventions
If you do return to the hospital or your doctor’s office, they may perform the following:
- Re-evaluation of the Wound: Your doctor will likely examine the surgical site to determine if the wound is healing properly and if any additional stitches are needed.

- Re-stitching: If the wound is deemed to be at risk of reopening or if it is not healing adequately, your doctor may decide to re-stitch the area to promote better healing.

- Advice on Care: Your healthcare provider will give you specific instructions on how to care for the area post-repair, including hygiene practices and activity restrictions.


Healing Process and Expectations
The healing process after circumcision can vary from person to person. Generally, it takes about 1 to 2 weeks for the initial healing to occur, but complete healing may take longer. During this time, it’s essential to follow your doctor’s post-operative care instructions closely.

- Avoiding Erection: If possible, try to avoid situations that may lead to erections until you have fully healed or have consulted with your doctor. This can help prevent further complications.

- Follow-Up Appointments: Ensure you attend any scheduled follow-up appointments with your healthcare provider to monitor your healing progress.


Conclusion
In summary, while a broken stitch after circumcision can be concerning, it’s essential to assess the situation calmly. If the bleeding has stopped and there are no signs of infection, you may not need immediate intervention, but it’s wise to consult your healthcare provider for peace of mind and to ensure proper healing. Always prioritize your health and don’t hesitate to seek medical advice when in doubt.