CIRCUMCISION

For many years, circumcision of newborns was routine in the United States. Because of concerns about the pain that might be experienced by an infant undergoing this minor procedure, the practice of circumcision has decreased. According to Dr. Pugach, research confirms that circumcised males have fewer urinary infections and circumcision may also provide some protection against sexually transmitted diseases later in life. For these reasons, the popularity of circumcisions is increasing again.

Circumcision, or removal of the foreskin that hangs over the head of the penis, is not just performed on newborns. Many adolescents and adults decide to have a circumcision because of persistent infections of the foreskin, urinary infections or pain and bleeding of the foreskin during erections. An interesting fact is that foreskin infections sometimes help urologists such as Dr. Pugach diagnose other conditions, such as early diabetes mellitus (abnormally high sugar levels in your body).
 

The Benefits

• Easier hygiene.
• Decreased risk of urinary tract infections. Severe infections early in life can lead to kidney problems later on.
• Prevention of penile problems. Occasionally, the foreskin on an uncircumcised penis may narrow so much that it's difficult or impossible to retract. This can also lead to inflammation of the head of the penis.
• Decreased risk of penile cancer. Although cancer of the penis is very rare, it's less common in circumcised men.
• Decreased risk of sexually transmitted diseases.

The Procedure

The procedure is minor surgery that is performed with a local anesthetic (novocaine) or a general anesthetic (when a patient goes to sleep) and can be done either in a hospital outpatient surgical department or a surgery center.  Circumcision, as it is performed by Dr. Pugach, takes approximately 15 minutes to perform and there is only mild pain or discomfort afterwards. Most normal activities can be resumed in a few days.

Dr. Pugach cautions that if an adult has a circumcision, sexual activity should be avoided for several weeks.

It should be noted that circumcision is usually covered by medical insurance plans. If you do not have insurance, convenient financing options can be arranged through Pacific Coast Urology Medical Center’s Business Office.

If you would like to schedule a consultation or receive more information about circumcision, call us at: 888-735-4336.