As a medical professional with expertise in urology, I can provide you with an informed perspective on the topic of circumcision and its potential health benefits and risks.

Circumcision is the surgical removal of the foreskin that covers the glans (head) of the penis. It is a procedure that is often performed for religious, cultural, or medical reasons. The health implications of circumcision are complex and can vary from one individual to another.

Health Benefits:
1. **Reduced Risk of Urinary Tract Infections (UTIs):** Circumcised males have a lower risk of developing UTIs, which are more common in uncircumcised males.

2. Decreased Risk of Acquired HIV: Some studies suggest that circumcised men have a lower risk of acquiring HIV during sexual intercourse, although this is not a guarantee and safe sex practices are still essential.

3. Prevention of Foreskin Conditions: Circumcision can prevent conditions such as phimosis (tight foreskin) and balanitis (inflammation of the glans).

4. Cancer Prevention: There is evidence that circumcision may reduce the risk of penile cancer, although this is a rare condition.

Health Risks and Considerations:

1. Surgical Risks: As with any surgery, there are risks of bleeding, infection, and complications, although these are generally rare and minor.

2. Loss of Sensitivity: Some men report a decrease in penile sensitivity after circumcision, which can affect sexual pleasure.

3. Psychological Impact: There is debate about the psychological impact of circumcision, with some arguing that it can affect a man's self-image or sexual identity.

4. Ethical Concerns: Some people raise ethical questions about performing non-medically necessary circumcision on infants, as they cannot consent to the procedure.

It's important to note that the World Health Organization (WHO) and the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) do not universally recommend circumcision for all males, but they acknowledge potential health benefits in certain contexts.

In conclusion, whether circumcision is "healthier" is a subjective question that depends on individual circumstances, cultural practices, and personal beliefs. It is a decision that should be made with the guidance of a healthcare professional after considering the potential benefits and risks.

read more >>

"The health benefits of male circumcision include a drop in the risk of urinary tract infection in the first year of life by up to 90 percent," she says. But there's a much bigger reason to do it, Blank said. Circumcised males are far less likely to get infected with a long list of sexually transmitted diseases.read more >>