Circumcision is a common surgical procedure performed on newborn babies. When it’s done correctly, adult circumcision doesn’t have any lasting impact on sexual function or urinating.
Newly circumcised men are advised to abstain from sex for six weeks while the wound heals. This recommendation is based on the fact that the unhealed wound provides a route for HIV infection.
How long does it take to heal?
Circumcision involves removing the foreskin — a blanket of skin that covers the head (glans) of the penis. It normally retracts to distinguish the head from the shaft, but it can become stiff and unable to retract in certain medical conditions like phimosis. Circumcision can help with this condition and other health issues, such as infections in the glans or penile sensitivity.
The surgery is typically quick and comfortable. It can be done in a doctor’s office or in the hospital. It can be performed under local or general anesthesia. A clamp or plastic ring will be attached to the circumcision site, and the doctor will remove the excess foreskin. They may also cauterize or stitch the remaining edges together with sutures that will dissolve. The doctor will usually wrap the area in gauze and allow you to go home as soon as there are no complications.
Once the wound is healed, you can wash it gently. Don’t use diaper wipes or any scented soaps or gels, as they can irritate the new skin. A lubricant can help with sensitivity and reduce the risk of bacterial infection. It’s a good idea to put a dab of petroleum jelly on the tip of the penis with each diaper change until it falls off.
There are some risks associated with circumcision, but most people have no problems. Some people bleed excessively or have pain for a few hours or days after the surgery. Other risks include infections, complications from the anesthesia, and pain or problems with urinating. Circumcision can lower your risk of sexually transmitted diseases, such as HIV, but safe sex practices are always important.
Can I have sex while it’s healing?
If you and your partner are sexually active, you may want to consider trying kissing or oral sex before moving on to intercourse. Your doctor can help you make a plan that’s right for your situation and goals.
However, it is important to note that many men who have been circumcised resume sexual activity before the wound has healed. This puts themselves and their partners at risk of HIV infection, according to a recent study of men in Zambia who underwent SMC. The researchers estimated that premature resumption of sexual behaviour in the six weeks after circumcision led to 69 additional HIV infections that would not have occurred had the men abstained.
The researchers surveyed men at the time of their circumcision and again six weeks later to discuss sexual beliefs and risk behaviors. They found that a significant proportion of men who had been circumcised believed that initial sexual intercourse post-circumcision was intended for cleansing purposes. This belief was associated with a higher likelihood of having unprotected sex and multiple sexual partners.
It’s important to remember that circumcision is a medical procedure and should only be performed by a trained professional. If you are considering getting circumcised, talk to your healthcare provider about what it means for your health and well-being. They will be able to answer your questions and give you advice on when it’s safe to have sex after circumcision.
Can I have sex after it’s healed?
When the circumcision wound is completely healed, it will feel and look like the rest of your penis. This will take a few weeks. It will be very sensitive for a while after that, so it’s best to wait before you try for penetrative sex. In the meantime, you should use a condom for penile penetration, even with a regular partner.
During the circumcision, we inject a local anesthetic near the base of your penis. You will feel a little bit of pain for a few days, but it’s not very severe. We will remove the foreskin and then close the wound with dissolvable stitches, which disappear within two to three weeks.
We advise people to abstain from sex for six weeks after circumcision because the unhealed wound can be a route of HIV transmission. Despite this, some men ignore the recommendation and engage in sexual activity before the wound has healed.
This study interviewed men who had been circumcised and followed up with them six months later. They were asked about their beliefs and behaviours, including sexual risk and protective behaviour. They were also asked about the factors that led to these beliefs.
The results of this study indicate that the beliefs and practices of circumcised men are important in determining whether they follow advice about not engaging in sex until the wound has fully healed. These beliefs can be difficult to overcome and may result in some men continuing to engage in sexual activity with non-partners before their penis has fully healed. This behaviour could have an impact on the spread of HIV in communities where sex with strangers is common.
Can I have sex before it’s healed?
When it comes to having sex after circumcision, the key is your partner and your personal comfort level. If you’re both ready for it, you can start by having oral sex or kissing. Then, gradually move to physical sex until you’re comfortable. Be sure to use lubricant to help with this process.
It’s also important to talk to your doctor about this before the surgery. They can advise you on what to expect and how long it takes for the groin to heal. They can also give you tips on how to minimize discomfort and ensure the healing process goes smoothly.
One of the most common complications of circumcision is balanitis. This is an infection of the head of the penis that can cause pain and swelling. Another problem is a condition called paraphimosis, which happens when the foreskin becomes tight and painful.
Some of these problems can be prevented with routine cleaning and a regimen of anti-inflammatory medications. A doctor can also recommend a topical cream that reduces itching and pain.
Research shows that circumcision lowers a person’s risk of getting HIV during vaginal sex. It also helps to prevent herpes and human papillomavirus (HPV). It can be hard to tell if you’re ready for sex after circumcision, but your doctor will be able to advise you on how to proceed safely.
