Does circumcision affect sex? What the evidence says

One of the most common questions parents ask about circumcision is whether it affects sexual satisfaction later in life. With opinions often shaped by cultural, personal, or anecdotal experiences, it's important to step back and look at what the scientific evidence actually shows.

This post explores what large-scale studies and clinical trials reveal about the relationship between male circumcision and sexual satisfaction, including perspectives from both men and their partners, and distinctions between infant and adult circumcision.

What do men report?

Large-scale studies suggest that most men who are circumcised, either as infants or adults, do not report decreased sexual satisfaction. In fact, multiple systematic reviews and international studies report no significant difference in sexual pleasure, function, or satisfaction between circumcised and uncircumcised men.

A landmark randomized controlled trial in Kenya (2007, Bailey et al.) that included over 2,700 adult men found that those who underwent circumcision as adults reported no loss of sexual function, and many noted improvements in hygiene and sensitivity. Because the procedure was done in adulthood, researchers were able to directly compare participants' experiences before and after circumcision.

A follow-up study (2008, Krieger et al.) confirmed that at two years post-procedure, these men were no more likely to report pain during sex or issues with orgasm. In fact, some reported increased sexual satisfaction, potentially related to reduced genital infections and improved confidence.

What do partners say?

Sexual satisfaction isn't just about one partner. Studies that include female partners also found no significant differences in their reported sexual satisfaction with circumcised vs. uncircumcised men.

For example, a 2011 study in The Lancet interviewed partners of newly circumcised men in Uganda. The majority reported no change or an improvement in their own sexual experiences following their partners' circumcision.

What about sensitivity?

Some critics argue that circumcision reduces sensitivity by removing nerve endings in the foreskin. While it's true that the foreskin contains sensory receptors, current evidence shows that the most sensitive parts of the penis, like the glans and frenulum, are unaffected or minimally affected by circumcision.

A 2015 systematic review by Bossio et al. in The Journal of Urology concluded that there is no strong scientific consensus that circumcision significantly reduces penile sensitivity in a way that impacts sexual satisfaction. This research helps answer the question: does circumcision affect sex? The evidence suggests it does not.

Listening to the data, respecting the choice

Sexual satisfaction is deeply individual. While the evidence strongly suggests that circumcision does not reduce sexual satisfaction, we acknowledge that every family's values and cultural backgrounds are different.

At SafeCirc®, we're committed to providing safe, supportive care whether families choose circumcision or not. We're here to answer your questions, offer resources, and support informed decision-making in a respectful, nonjudgmental way. Learn more about the benefits of newborn circumcision or schedule a consultation at SafeCirc®.

Frequently asked questions

Does circumcision affect sex and sexual pleasure? Large-scale studies show no significant difference in sexual pleasure or satisfaction between circumcised and uncircumcised men. Multiple systematic reviews support this finding across different populations and age groups.

Will circumcision reduce penile sensitivity? Current research shows that circumcision does not significantly reduce penile sensitivity in ways that impact sexual satisfaction. The most sensitive parts of the penis remain unaffected or minimally affected.

What do partners say about circumcision and sex? Studies including female partners found no significant differences in sexual satisfaction with circumcised vs. uncircumcised men. Some partners reported improvements in their sexual experiences after their partner's circumcision.