Post-Circumcision Recovery: When to Worry About Stitches and Sexual Activity

Circumcision surgery

Hello Dr.
Lee, I had a circumcision surgery on October 27, and it has been 11 days.
The swelling has significantly reduced, but the stitches have not completely dissolved; only a few have fallen out.
When I followed up with the surgeon, he also advised against taking baths.
If the stitches do not fall out after a certain period, should I ask the doctor to remove them? Currently, I am experiencing some erections, but they are not very painful, which I assume indicates a quick recovery.
Lastly, regarding sexual activity, is it safer to wait over a month before resuming sexual intercourse, or is it sufficient to wait until the wound has healed and the stitches have fallen out?

Mr. Chen, 30~39 year old female. Ask Date: 2015/11/06

Dr. Li Xinyi reply Urology

It is also possible to have a follow-up appointment for suture removal.
If the wound has opened due to sexual activity after more than a month, my recommendation is to avoid excessive pulling of the foreskin for at least six weeks.
Information found online should only be used as a reference; it is still important to seek medical attention at a healthcare facility.

Reply Date: 2015/11/06

More Info

Post-circumcision recovery is an important topic that many individuals may have questions about, especially regarding the healing process, concerns about stitches, and when it is safe to resume sexual activity.
Firstly, it is common for individuals to experience some swelling after circumcision, and the timeline for recovery can vary from person to person. Typically, the swelling should start to subside within the first week or two post-surgery. As for the stitches, it is not unusual for them to take longer to dissolve or fall out. Generally, absorbable stitches can take anywhere from one to three weeks to dissolve completely. If you notice that the stitches have not fallen out after two weeks, it is advisable to consult your surgeon. They may recommend a follow-up appointment to assess the healing process and determine if any stitches need to be removed manually.

Regarding pain during erections, it is a positive sign that you are experiencing minimal discomfort. This suggests that your recovery is progressing well. However, it is essential to listen to your body. If you experience significant pain during erections or any other unusual symptoms, it is crucial to reach out to your healthcare provider for further evaluation.

When it comes to resuming sexual activity, the general recommendation is to wait until the surgical site has healed adequately. This typically takes about four to six weeks, but it can vary based on individual healing rates. Engaging in sexual activity too soon can increase the risk of complications, such as infection or reopening the surgical site. Therefore, waiting at least a month, or until you feel comfortable and confident that the area has healed, is a prudent approach.
Additionally, it is important to consider that sexual arousal can lead to erections, which may still cause discomfort if the area is not fully healed. Therefore, communication with your partner about your comfort levels and any concerns is vital.
In summary, monitor the healing of your stitches, consult your doctor if they do not dissolve in a reasonable timeframe, and prioritize your comfort when considering resuming sexual activity. Waiting at least a month post-surgery is generally a safe guideline, but always follow your healthcare provider's specific recommendations based on your individual recovery progress.
Lastly, it is worth noting that everyone's body is different, and factors such as age, overall health, and adherence to post-operative care can influence recovery times. If you have any further questions or concerns, do not hesitate to reach out to your healthcare provider for personalized advice.

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