The pros and cons of circumcision for newborns
If you're weighing the decision about circumcision for your baby, you're likely looking for honest, evidence‑based information. This choice is deeply personal, and parents deserve access to facts that help them feel confident about what's right for their family. Understanding both the benefits and concerns allows you to make an informed decision based on evidence, not fear or pressure.
At SafeCirc®, our philosophy is simple: It's your job to decide. It's our job to make it safe. In this guide, we walk through the pros and cons of circumcision with care and transparency. We explore the medical evidence, address common concerns, and explain how modern approaches can maximize benefits while minimizing risks.
At a glance
Major medical organizations like the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) indicate that the health benefits of newborn male circumcision outweigh the risks, but recommend individualized decision-making.¹²
Evidence shows circumcision is associated with reduced heterosexual HIV transmission in high-prevalencesettings.³⁴¹⁰
Systematic reviews indicate lower urinary tract infection (UTI) rates in circumcised infants.⁵⁶
Peer-reviewed clinical studies show the AccuCirc® device is safe and more accurate for early infant male circumcision.¹¹⁻¹⁵
Outpatient timing (7–28 days) allows more time for breastfeeding establishment and informed parental decision-making.
The medical consensus: Benefits outweigh risks
Before diving into specific pros and cons, it's important to understand the broader medical perspective. The American Academy of Pediatrics’ policy statement concludes that the health benefits of newborn male circumcision outweigh the risks, but parents should make individualized decisions considering cultural, ethical, and personal factors.¹²
The pros: Medical benefits of circumcision
Reduced risk of heterosexual HIV transmission
Large randomized controlled trials in Africa have shown male circumcision reduces heterosexual HIV acquisition by approximately 40–60%.³⁴ WHO and UNAIDS endorse circumcision as part of combination HIV prevention strategies in high-prevalence areas.⁹ WHO and UNAIDS endorse circumcision as part of combination HIV prevention strategies in high-prevalence areas.¹⁰
Learn more about circumcision and HIV risk.
Lower risk of urinary tract infections (UTIs)
Circumcised infants have a lower risk of UTIs in the first year of life.⁵⁶ This protective effect may be particularly important for families with a history of urinary tract or kidney problems.
Decreased risk of certain sexually transmitted infections
Circumcision may reduce risk of acquiring HSV-2 and high-risk HPV strains.⁷⁸ This may also indirectly lower cervical cancer risk in female partners.
Prevention of penile conditions
Circumcision eliminates risk of phimosis, reduces balanitis and posthitis, and prevents paraphimosis.¹²
Learn more about paraphimosis.
Reduced risk of penile cancer
Circumcised males have a lower incidence of penile cancer.⁹
Simplified genital hygiene
Circumcision may make hygiene easier, especially for infants and later for adults with mobility or cognitive limitations.¹²
For a comprehensive overview of these benefits, explore our detailed guide on the medical advantages of circumcision.
The cons: Concerns and how modern approaches address them
Device-related injuries with traditional methods
Older devices such as the Mogen clamp have been associated with rare but serious complications.¹¹¹²
Learn more about Mogen clamp complications.
AccuCirc® device clinical data
Peer-reviewed field and clinical studies demonstrate safety and improved accuracy of the AccuCirc® device.¹¹⁻¹⁵
In a qualitative study of early infant male circumcision devices, clinicians involved in performing circumcisions in Kenya expressed that AccuCirc® was generally preferred or considered the safest and most appropriate device for wider use in programmatic settings due to its protective features and ease of use.¹⁵
These data show AccuCirc® prevents device-related injuries, improves accuracy, and is preferred by providers.
General procedural considerations
Pain and comfort: Local anesthesia and pain mitigation strategies are used to minimize discomfort. SafeCirc® uses comprehensive pain management strategies, including local anesthesia, tissue adhesive, and protective dressing to minimize discomfort during diaper changes.
Timing and breastfeeding: Outpatient procedures performed 7–28 days after birth allow more time to establish breastfeeding. Learn more about why SafeCirc® prioritizes breastfeeding and the importance of the golden hour.
Follow-up care and support: Structured follow-up ensures optimal healing
Provider choice and transparency: Parents can choose the device, timing, and approach with full information.
General risks: Complications like minor bleeding or infection are rare with skilled providers and proper aftercare.¹²
Frequently asked questions about the pros and cons of circumcision
Do medical organizations recommend circumcision?
AAP and WHO state benefits outweigh risks; parents should make informed decisions.¹²¹⁰
What are the most significant benefits of circumcision?
Reduced HIV risk, lower infant UTIs, decreased STI transmission, prevention of penile conditions, and easier hygiene.³⁻¹⁰
What are the main concerns about circumcision?
Device-related injuries (rare with older devices), procedural discomfort, early hospital timing, and general surgical risks.
Is circumcision safe?
When performed by trained clinicians using evidence-based devices with proper follow-up, serious adverse events are very rare.¹¹⁻¹⁵
Can I wait to decide?
Yes — outpatient circumcision within 28 days is safe and allows informed decision-making.
Resources for continuing research
We encourage families to continue learning:
• Explore common circumcision myths
• Read about the global perspective on circumcision
• Review frequently asked questions about the procedure
Disclaimer
This article is for educational purposes only and does not replace personalized medical advice. Decisions about newborn male circumcision should be made with a qualified healthcare provider, taking into account individual health, cultural beliefs, and family preferences. Reference to specific devices or studies does not constitute endorsement by medical organizations.
Ready to learn more?
Schedule a tour of SafeCirc® Center of Excellence to see how we address traditional concerns about circumcision. For families who have already delivered, schedule your baby's care anytime in the first 28 days of life.
References
American Academy of Pediatrics Task Force on Circumcision. Technical Report. Pediatrics. 2012.
Auvert B, et al. Randomized controlled trial of male circumcision for HIV prevention. PLoS Medicine.
Gray RH, et al. Male circumcision for HIV prevention. The Lancet.
Wiswell TE, et al. Risk of UTI in circumcised vs uncircumcised infants. Pediatrics.
Singh-Grewal D, et al. Circumcision and UTI prevention. Arch Dis Child.
Tobian AAR, et al. Male circumcision and prevention of HSV-2 and HPV. NEJM.
Morris BJ, et al. Circumcision status and penile cancer risk. BJU International.
World Health Organization & UNAIDS. Male circumcision for HIV prevention.
Feldblum PJ, et al. AccuCirc® field evaluation, Kenya. PLoS One. 2016.
Hodges F, et al. AccuCirc® randomized trial vs Mogen clamp, Zimbabwe. BMC Pediatrics. 2015.
Obiero J, et al. AccuCirc® single-arm study, Botswana. Global Health Action. 2014.