Circumcision Specialist in New Port Richey, FL: What You Should Know
If you’re been told that you’re having a boy, one of the first decisions parents will need to make shortly after birth is whether or not to have their newborn circumcised. Circumcision is a simple procedure that removes the foreskin from the tip of the penis.
Of course, circumcision is also a personal choice that we believe every parent needs to make. Whether you are looking for a circumcision specialist here in New Port Richey, FL or you’re looking for a medical professional that can provide you with answers regarding whether or not to have your baby boy circumcised, the pediatricians at Pediatric Specialists Medical Group are here to help.
What are the benefits of circumcision?
While some people may choose to have their babies circumcised for religious or cultural reasons, there are also some benefits to getting circumcised. Studies have shown those baby boys who have been circumcised were less likely to develop urinary tract infections, especially within the first few years of life. Later in life, circumcision can also reduce the spread of sexually transmitted infections (STIs).
Should I wait?
Some parents choose to let their sons grow up and decide for themselves whether or not they want to get circumcised. While this is a viable choice, most pediatricians will tell you that the sooner you choose to get a circumcision the better. While the procedure is minor and quick, it’s often handled better by newborns than by older children, teens, or adults. With newborns, numbing ointment is all that’s needed, but anesthesia is often required for toddlers and older children.
You should also speak with our team about your current health insurance, as circumcision is often covered but only for newborns. If you decide to wait, your health insurance may not cover the cost of the procedure, since it’s considered an elective procedure. This is also something to keep in mind when deciding whether or not to have your baby boy circumcised.