Circumcision: How Well It Works

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How Well It Works

Your baby's penis usually starts feeling better within about 3 to 4 days after being circumcised. Your newborn may be fussy and irritable, may have trouble sleeping, and may have pain when he urinates during these first few days. Also, for about 2 weeks, it can be painful whenever urine or stool touches the tip of the penis. Keep in mind that even though your baby's penis starts feeling better after 3 days, it may look worse. About 7 to 10 days after the procedure, the penis will usually look like it's healing.

You will likely take your baby home the same day he is circumcised. Some swelling around the penis is normal in the first few days after the surgery. Some slight bleeding may occur. If this happens, apply direct but gentle pressure to the area with a clean cloth or bandage for about 5 to 10 minutes.

• Gently wash the area with warm water when needed. Soap is not recommended.
• Put petroleum jelly, such as Vaseline, around the circumcised area. The petroleum jelly prevents the scab from sticking to the diaper.
• Give your baby acetaminophen for pain. Talk to your doctor about how much and how often you should give your baby this medicine. Call your doctor anytime your baby seems to be in a lot of pain.

You may notice a yellow, scabby area around the penis. This lasts about 3 to 5 days and will gradually go away as the skin heals.

Last updated:	February 19, 2008
Author:	Debby Golonka, MPH
Reviewed By:	Michael J. Sexton, MD - Pediatrics, Peter Anderson, MD, FRCS(C) - Pediatric Urology
Editors:	Susan Van Houten, RN, BSN, MBA, Pat Truman, MATC