Circumcision, Sex, God, and Science: Modern Health Benefits of an Ancient Ritual

Newborn circumcision results in lifetime medical benefits. There are many health advantages, and surgical risks are minimal. Of greatest benefit is 60% protection against acquiring HIV/AIDS, and 6 African countries have started mass circumcision programs. Other sexually transmitted infections with protection include human papilloma virus (the cause of penile and cervical cancer) and genital herpes, which can result in death or brain damage in newborns. There is prevention of infant kidney infections, foreskin infections, local skin diseases and retraction problems, along with ease of genital hygiene. Women prefer the circumcised penis- cleaner sex is better and more varied. The newborn period is the window of opportunity since the foreskin is thinner (no sutures needed), and babies have higher levels of stress hormones and recover quickly. Circumcision is an important worldwide public health measure.