Circumcision rates are declining in the United States, though it remains a fairly common procedure. Circumcision is the removal of the foreskin on the end of the baby boy’s penis. There is no medical reason for a circumcision to be performed, however, parents may opt for the procedure due to religious, family, or personal reasons. If the parents do opt for a circumcision it is typically done soon after delivery, while mom and baby are still in the hospital.

If your baby has been circumcised you will need to take special care of his genitals while his circumcision heals. Be sure to talk to your baby’s pediatrician and the nurses in the hospital about what you should be doing.

Standard care for a healing circumcision includes gently cleansing the outside skin of the penis during each diaper change with plain, warm water. It is recommended that you do not use baby wipes on the area until it has fully healed. Your doctor or the nurses at the hospital will advise you if there are any other special care instructions that you need to follow for your baby.

You will need to keep an eye on the area as it heals to make sure it is healing properly and no signs of infection appear. Be sure to call your child’s pediatrician immediately if any of the following occur:

• The tip of the penis stays red with a yellow liquid coming from around the end for more than a week.
• There is bleeding, a foul smelling discharge, swelling, or more redness.
• The baby does not appear to be urinating.
• The baby has a fever.
• Any other signs that appear abnormal or you are concerned about.