Upcoming circumcision

[Telkanis]

Ok, not sure if this goes here but if not a mod can move it.

So, I've given in to parents and agreed to get cut and the appointments for over thanksgiving break right now (please don't turn this into an argument that I should say no way and fight my parents, trust me I've been there already)

Dad moved it to thanksgiving so it would be sooner and so we could go on a dive vacation over Christmas but I looked at my schedule and it'd only give me a week off before have to go back to school (boarding school) and I'd rather no one at school finds out about it. I'm also freaking out about it and it would be right after end of term exams so I'm worried I wouldn't be able to focus on them.

I talked to dad and he said he was willing to move it back to Christmas. I'd have 3 weeks before school, don't have to worry about exams, but dive trip would be canceled. Moving it back could also give me more time to find a way not to do it but its pretty unlikely at this point.

Should I just get it over with an do it over thanksgiving and then have cool Christmas, or push it back?

[bidude94]

Get it over with in my opinion, Im getting it done after thanksgiving but its my choice not my parents

[Sleepwalking]

I'd say get it over with. I'm always that way with everything though.
I'm not arguing, but I was curious why you're getting the circumcision. Religious issues?
Or is it because of a health issue?

[IAMWILL]

Just wondering why are you getting it done?

I'd just get it over with. Dive trip sounds like something you don't want to miss. Plus if you extend the date you will just be dreading it for weeks to come. Better to do it now.

[Cycling Penguin]

1) the diving holiday seems well cool ! You don't want to canel that
2) "I'm also freaking out about it and it would be right after end of term exams". Exactly AFTER your exams. They will be done by then
3). I would stand up to you parents and don't do it!
4). If you will get it done them do it at 'thanksgiving' (that's not something we have in the uk)

[BakeBake]

I'd say get it over with, that way it is done and then you don't have to worry about it anymore, you can then enjoy your Christmas and have to worry about the water irritating it. And I highly doubt that anyone at school is going to shout out "Dude, Zach you got circumcised *high five*" they aren't going to do that, if they do notice they may bring it up to you in person, but just remember it doesn't matter.

[Edawg]

It probably would be best to just get it over with so you don't have to keep being worried about it or nervous.

[niceguy887]

I'd never let my parents force me to do something like that, but that's just me.

[Giles]

Not sure why you're asking us this. This is entirely your decision, although the circumcision isn't (what?), so it's up to you. Make a decision.

[MartyG]

but I was curious why you're getting the circumcision. Religious issues?
Or is it because of a health issue?

Yes; would you mind sharing the reasons why you're being asked (told???) to do this?

Not to imply that it's wrong or uncommon or unusual or anything else....but it will help others here to understand the issues involved.

MartyG

[MuscleTeen98]

I Would just say 'Get it over with' but why exactly are they making you do this? its your body. Although, you are only 13 and you are a minor.. But if you wanted to, when your older look into foreskin restoration.. But who knows, i had it done when i was 12 almost 13 and i love being cut.

[Joe1994]

just do it, being cut is not that bad.

[Luke91]

Go on and get it done. Stop worrying about it once and for all. You will be fine to back to school after 1 week and your classmates will never know.

[crumbs]

Uh, you're going to need more than 1 week off school. It will still be swollen after probably 4 weeks. Cutting off half the skin on your penis is hardly a small procedure.

I come from another country, but I can't fathom a place where parents would inflict this on their children. Your body, your choice. Just my two cents.

[sdude]

If you are "freaking out" about it, sounds like THEY have made the decision for you....I know you love your parents and respect them, but this should NEVER be their choice, but yours. If you are this unsure, you need to talk to them or a counselor or the doctor as you do this, it is for life....you can't go back once you are cut...Those of you saying "just get it over with" are dead wrong. Most of us never have the choice as it is determined by parents at birth....at 13, you damn well have the right and, in some cases, this could be considered child abuse. Many countries are considering this more and more as a decision that should be taken away from doctors (who see it as easy income) and parents (Dad because it was done to him and Mom because she thinks it is more hygienic or attractive)....THINK FOR YOURSELF!!!

[FameMonster]

Im with pretty much everyone else- just get it over with and enjoy your trip and Christmas vacation without being in discomfort. I'm definitely not speaking from experience, having been cut as an infant, but a week is probably enough time to be somewhat back to normal with minimal discomfort. You just wont be able to j/o or have sex. (not that you were)

[Nayef]

Hi i am cut from childhood and used to it and its not bad sometimes i just wish to know how it is uncut but you know now how uncut is and you can get cut now .

I read in other tread there is something like semi cut maybe this is a good solution for you

But I suggest to do it .

[sparkles]

Do it or don't do it, but be absolutely sure that is what you want. You still seem very apprehensive.

If you are going to do, might as well do it sooner than later.

[Telkanis]

Hi guys, thanks for the thoughts. I'm going to just go a head and get it over with at thanksgiving so don't mess up Christmas. Yeah I know that I'm the only one who can make the decision but I probably would have pushed it back just because I'm nervous about it and ended up ruining Christmas.

Some of you asked why I'm doing it so whole story is below. (I know we're not supposed to story tell but not sure how else to explain the reasons, mod can edit if wants)

I was born premature and so parents and dr didn't want to risk it. Then they were apparently busy and just didnt really think about it. Recently their have been a bunch of studies out about it and that was convinced them that they made a mistake not circumcising me earlier.

Over the summer my dad took me on camping trip just us and one night he brought it up and explain that he and mom had been discussing it and agreed that it would be best if I was cut before really entered puberty and become sexually active. I was pretty surprised and embarrassed so didn't really say much. After my physical dad had also talked to my doctor and she said it would be a good idea and now would be much better than later.

The reasons they gave me were that it reduced stds and possible complications later. I know some people on the forum said that its wrong and doesn't but dad gave me the articles and I don't believe they're lying or would make me do something that was pointless. My parents are pretty awesome (except for this).

Last weekend I had a long break and got up the courage to talk to dad about it again. I explained how I'd never had a problem and I'd always use protection and be careful. Basically his reply was that that was good but it was important to reduce chance of disease transmition. Whatever. I didn't want to bring up the "it'll hurt" argument because he doesn't have much sympathy for pain and was too embarrassed to bring up "ill have to stop wanking" or "but it won't feel as good" arguments.

Also, its the actual operation I'm worried about since i dont really like doctors and i hate needles. Not really after. I talked to a bunch of my cut friends and they said they were cool with it and wanking still felt awesome.

Sure it's going to suck for a while but I'm not ready to make a huge deal of it with parents and just say flat out no way.

Thanks again for advice guys

[Abyssal Echo]

Ok, not sure if this goes here but if not a mod can move it.

So, I've given in to parents and agreed to get cut and the appointments for over thanksgiving break right now (please don't turn this into an argument that I should say no way and fight my parents, trust me I've been there already)

Dad moved it to thanksgiving so it would be sooner and so we could go on a dive vacation over Christmas but I looked at my schedule and it'd only give me a week off before have to go back to school (boarding school) and I'd rather no one at school finds out about it. I'm also freaking out about it and it would be right after end of term exams so I'm worried I wouldn't be able to focus on them.

I talked to dad and he said he was willing to move it back to Christmas. I'd have 3 weeks before school, don't have to worry about exams, but dive trip would be canceled. Moving it back could also give me more time to find a way not to do it but its pretty unlikely at this point.

Should I just get it over with an do it over thanksgiving and then have cool Christmas, or push it back?

we've talked many times about this. so, you know how I feel about it already. I'd tell my parents no way and be happy with what I got but thats me. in the end you have to live with it not your parents. wish you all the best.

[DismaliciouSx]

I would suggest get it done now unless you really don't want it done and you think if you push it back you could avoid it. Also if you get it done over thanksgiving break you'll have plenty of recovery time.

[Allain1996]

Over the summer my dad took me on camping trip just us and one night he brought it up and explain that he and mom had been discussing it and agreed that it would be best if I was cut.......I was pretty surprised and embarrassed so I didn't really say much.
...……I'm not ready to make a huge deal of it with parents and just say flat out no way.

Idk about your family bro, but in mine my penis isn't considered the "family penis", and the decisions about what does and doesn't happen to my penis are not family decisions that my parents "debate" on and then tell me what is going to happen to me and little Ryan.
In my opinion, if you want to get cut (which it doesn't sound like you want to do), then go get cut. If you want your dick left the hell alone, then you should tell your parents what you want to happen to your penis, and if they still don't respect that, I'd tell them to back the hell off and shove it up their.....butt. Lol
Also, I've been cut since I was 6 days old and I've loved every minute of masturbating and everything. Being cut isn't bad at all bro!
Good luck bro!

[FameMonster]

Thanks for sharing that. Being cut isn't that bad, but of course I don't know anything else. Good luck with your operation and keep us updated.


Hi guys, thanks for the thoughts. I'm going to just go a head and get it over with at thanksgiving so don't mess up Christmas. Yeah I know that I'm the only one who can make the decision but I probably would have pushed it back just because I'm nervous about it and ended up ruining Christmas.

Some of you asked why I'm doing it so whole story is below. (I know we're not supposed to story tell but not sure how else to explain the reasons, mod can edit if wants)

I was born premature and so parents and dr didn't want to risk it. Then they were apparently busy and just didnt really think about it. Recently their have been a bunch of studies out about it and that was convinced them that they made a mistake not circumcising me earlier.

Over the summer my dad took me on camping trip just us and one night he brought it up and explain that he and mom had been discussing it and agreed that it would be best if I was cut before really entered puberty and become sexually active. I was pretty surprised and embarrassed so didn't really say much. After my physical dad had also talked to my doctor and she said it would be a good idea and now would be much better than later.

The reasons they gave me were that it reduced stds and possible complications later. I know some people on the forum said that its wrong and doesn't but dad gave me the articles and I don't believe they're lying or would make me do something that was pointless. My parents are pretty awesome (except for this).

Last weekend I had a long break and got up the courage to talk to dad about it again. I explained how I'd never had a problem and I'd always use protection and be careful. Basically his reply was that that was good but it was important to reduce chance of disease transmition. Whatever. I didn't want to bring up the "it'll hurt" argument because he doesn't have much sympathy for pain and was too embarrassed to bring up "ill have to stop wanking" or "but it won't feel as good" arguments.

Also, its the actual operation I'm worried about since i dont really like doctors and i hate needles. Not really after. I talked to a bunch of my cut friends and they said they were cool with it and wanking still felt awesome.

Sure it's going to suck for a while but I'm not ready to make a huge deal of it with parents and just say flat out no way.

Thanks again for advice guys

[Giles]

Recently their have been a bunch of studies out about it and that was convinced them that they made a mistake not circumcising me earlier.

The majority of studies that actually outright support circumcision, either at birth or later in life, are based on outdated information. I wouldn't be surprised if any of those articles source studies and surveys that are 30/40+ years old - which would have been when circumcision was ridiculously more common. Just out of curiosity; are your parents religious?


The reasons they gave me were that it reduced stds and possible complications later. I know some people on the forum said that its wrong and doesn't but dad gave me the articles and I don't believe they're lying or would make me do something that was pointless. My parents are pretty awesome (except for this).

Being circumcised doesn't actually reduce the amount of STIs you get, if you're going to get one then being circumcised or uncircumcised won't change that. There are some people that believe being circumcised does redue the likelihood of contracting the infection but, personally, I've yet to see something that I believe either way. If anything, being circumcised (especially at your age) will actually increase the likelihood of complications - right now your penis is, presumably, perfectly normal and there's no reason to assume that anything would go wrong.

However, if you get circumcised now you've got a few stages in which something could go pretty wrong - the operation itself; no operation is without risks, there could be a mistake during the operation and anything could go wrong (specifically - being cut too tightly, meaning that your penis will 'feel' tight, having the circumcision at an angle rather than straight (Causes the scar, if you get one, to look horrible)). After the operation you've got the entire healing period in which something could go wrong; the wound could become infected, you could accidentally tear the wound (causing the scar, again, to become ugly). I don't actually know too much about what could happen once everything is healed, that might be worth looking into though.


Sure it's going to suck for a while but I'm not ready to make a huge deal of it with parents and just say flat out no way.


If you're not ready to make a big deal now then you never will be. Once you're circumcised that's it, you can't go back and have the foreskin put back on. This is something that's going to change your life forever and you have every right to make the decision yourself. I can understand that some parents think it's right, regardless of if it actually is, because they had it done themselves or to their brothers and they aren't told any better - that's fine for the circumcision of their sons at birth. But later in life, when they know what is going on and are at least somewhat aware of the positives and negatives is just wrong. You have every right to refuse to do this and your parents would be completely unable to force you - although, again, I can understand that you may not want to get to that stage; just remember, that it is your penis and it's ultimately up to you.

[Axw_JD]

All I can say is that I am really sorry for you, that your parents are forcing you to accept to be mutilated like this, and that no, it isn't just gonna suck for a while, is gonna suck from now on compared to not being circumcised.

If it was me, I would postpone it for as long as possible, more time for your parents to think straight about what they are doing, and for you to smack some reason into their heads.

[crumbs]

Sorry mate, but the articles ARE wrong and ARE misleading. There's zero evidence that it has any benefits, and you're being completely misled by your doctor.

You know, if you asked any other doctor in any other country in the world, they would tell you it's a completely unnecessary procedure and has no benefits? Just think about that for a minute then think about the real reasoning your doctor would be glad to have you proceed with this (hint: $$$).

Also think about this: if the procedure is so amazingly successful at preventing diseases or stopping the spread of HIV/AIDS/etc. why does America have the highest rate of HIV/AIDS of any western world country? No other western country does this procedure to the extent of the USA, and none of them have any issues with HIV/AIDS. So read up on the facts.

And as echoed earlier, to hell with your parents telling you what you should and shouldn't do with your body. Especially with something like this. If you want it done, fine; it's good you get that choice for yourself. But I'd have two words for my parents if they asked me to do what your parents are asking of you.

Completely bizarre, the USA is the only country on the whole planet where this sort of scenario would happen. And frankly creepy that your father has such an investment in your genitals. Sorry, but it's true. Maybe it's a cultural thing, but everywhere else in the world? They'd treat that as borderline child abuse.

[niceguy887]

Sorry mate, but the articles ARE wrong and ARE misleading. There's zero evidence that it has any benefits, and you're being completely misled by your doctor.

You know, if you asked any other doctor in any other country in the world, they would tell you it's a completely unnecessary procedure and has no benefits? Just think about that for a minute then think about the real reasoning your doctor would be glad to have you proceed with this (hint: $$$).

Also think about this: if the procedure is so amazingly successful at preventing diseases or stopping the spread of HIV/AIDS/etc. why does America have the highest rate of HIV/AIDS of any western world country? No other western country does this procedure to the extent of the USA, and none of them have any issues with HIV/AIDS. So read up on the facts.

And as echoed earlier, to hell with your parents telling you what you should and shouldn't do with your body. Especially with something like this. If you want it done, fine; it's good you get that choice for yourself. But I'd have two words for my parents if they asked me to do what your parents are asking of you.

Completely bizarre, the USA is the only country on the whole planet where this sort of scenario would happen. And frankly creepy that your father has such an investment in your genitals. Sorry, but it's true. Maybe it's a cultural thing, but everywhere else in the world? They'd treat that as borderline child abuse.

Best reply ever!

Your parents may have good intentions, but they are based on bogus information. Your doctor is crazy. Condoms and common sense prevent STDs. Not circumcision.

[Telkanis]

Umm, the studies they showed me are all within the last 5 years and the American pediatrics association just came out saying benefits outweighed risk. There was another one that came out last month that said dropping rates would cause healthcare costs to go up. So on that I believe they're right.

I'm not really in favor of it and will probably leave my kids intact but I'm not going to argue with the overall science because I don't know enough about it. My parents take a pretty black and white view of stuff and if they're shown that something is scientifically better they'll do it like dad is going through renovating a lot of the house to make it energy efficient. I'm sure the renovations are costing a lot more than we will ever save.

I just hope it's over fast like they promise and recovery isn't too bad.

[Human]

how could you let your parents force you into snipping part of your penis off? you could just say no. and let it be. pretty sure it's illegal to force someone to do something they don't want to. however seeing as you won't listen and will get it done anyway, just get it out the way.

[Edawg]

I wouldn't worry too much about going through the surgery. The doctors will be experienced and know what they are doing. Plus, I am pretty sure the put you under anesthesia, so you don't have to be awake or feel it. Anesthesiologist is very capable of what they do, trust me, my grandma is one

[IAMWILL]

Umm, the studies they showed me are all within the last 5 years and the American pediatrics association just came out saying benefits outweighed risk. There was another one that came out last month that said dropping rates would cause healthcare costs to go up. So on that I believe they're right.

I'm not really in favor of it and will probably leave my kids intact but I'm not going to argue with the overall science because I don't know enough about it. My parents take a pretty black and white view of stuff and if they're shown that something is scientifically better they'll do it like dad is going through renovating a lot of the house to make it energy efficient. I'm sure the renovations are costing a lot more than we will ever save.

I just hope it's over fast like they promise and recovery isn't too bad.

Efficent energu generally pays for itself after 10-15 years, its quite a good investment actually. No one would do it just to "be green" if the costs outweighed the benefits.

And you're recovery will probably be... miserable. You're not going to be able to masturbate for at least a few weeks, possibly months, and last time I checked it was hard for a 13 year old to not do it for more than a day or two. You will be in some considerable pain. After you recover you will lose a lot of sensitivity in your head, which will be less pleasurable when masturbating, which is just about the only thing you will want to do after not being able to for weeks.

And then there are all the reasons Giles mentioned.

I think you're suffering from a bit of confirmation bias here. This means you are ignorning information that is contrary to what you want, only accepting information that supports your view. Being circumsized has no benefits over being uncircumsized, and vice versa. Thats why its falling out of popularity in the US. People used to believe what you do now, and its been realized that theyre old beliefs were wrong. In the 50s about 80% of men were circumsized. Currently, its about 45%.

You should seriously take your time and rethink this.

[MartyG]

Hi Zach,

Thanks for posting the story. We're not supposed to "story tell" here? I never knew that.

I think that what you say makes sense. Your parents are obviously doing what they feel is best for you...and in fact it may be. Everyone is different; the pros and cons of circumcision have been discussed forever and there are a lot of good arguments for each position.

I commend you for having trust in and admiration for your parents. That's awesome. I'm sure they are very proud of you. I suspect too...that if you really did not want to do this...and provided your parents the appropriate research...that they would stand by your wishes.

You are choosing not to do that...and I respect your decision.

Good luck; I'm sure all will be well...

MartyG

[Telkanis]

Hey, ok. I'm not for it I think its pointless. Just that it's not something I'm ready to fight parents about and I don't think they are evil or wrong for wanting it. I think it'll be ok once it's healed up. Ill have a massively bad day and a couple sucky weeks. I might be wrong and it might be the worst decision ever and yeah I might be miserable with sex life forever (hope not) but guess then you guys can say "I told you so" if it happens.

[sdude]

Umm, the studies they showed me are all within the last 5 years and the American pediatrics association just came out saying benefits outweighed risk. There was another one that came out last month that said dropping rates would cause healthcare costs to go up. So on that I believe they're right.

I'm not really in favor of it and will probably leave my kids intact but I'm not going to argue with the overall science because I don't know enough about it. My parents take a pretty black and white view of stuff and if they're shown that something is scientifically better they'll do it like dad is going through renovating a lot of the house to make it energy efficient. I'm sure the renovations are costing a lot more than we will ever save.

I just hope it's over fast like they promise and recovery isn't too bad.

If you are not in favor of it, tell them NO WAY!! This is NOT having your freakin tonsils out dude, they are FOREVER altering your sexual organ and potentially your life!!! At these times I wish some adult could read this and help you tackle your moronic parents. DO YOU HAVE SEXUAL DISEASES already they are so worried about you spreading??? Cause it isn't that you are so likely to CATCH anything different from sex, only that you might be spreading it easier... STOP THIS MADNESS!!!

[IAMWILL]

I thought you said you were the one wanting it? Man your parents cannot control you like that. Forcing someone into a medical procedure is child abuse. Its your penis, not theirs.

[crumbs]

Umm, the studies they showed me are all within the last 5 years and the American pediatrics association just came out saying benefits outweighed risk.

Sorry buddy, I know this is tough for you but I have to pull you up on this point. Please understand very clearly, the updated policy DOES NOT condone circumcision. It still states that in no way do they endorse circumcision. Previously, they said that the risks of a circumcision outweighed any benefits. They've now decided the surgery isn't as risky vs potential hygiene benefits. They are not saying it's more beneficial to be circumcised than left intact. They still do not recommend the procedure in the first place.

Also note that not a single other medical body in the world has such a lenient stance on the procedure (every other country flat out says it is wrong and many countries have legislation in place to ban the procedure, including Germany and some states of Australia). America itself has had rates plummet to beneath 50%, so more kids are being left alone than cut. For whatever reason (draw your own conclusions) the media have all misleadingly reported the updated policy as some kind of endorsement of circumcision when really it's nothing of the sort.

And don't kid yourself, at your age, this is a major surgery. Your penis will be swollen for probably more than a month. You will not be able to urinate without intense pain. The wound could very easily get infected and lead to complications. Don't even think about masturbating or getting an erection, because it could break your stitches. And then you have to contend with your glans being constantly exposed, which will be irritating to no end probably for a few years until it eventually desensitises and loses sensitivity (as is the norm after circumcision; decreased sexual pleasure).

So if you want to go through all that, just because your dad wants to own your penis? Go right ahead. Just know what you're getting yourself into. And just so you know, those experiences were explained to me by a Filipino mate of mine whose parents forced it on him at 15; he said it was the worst month of his life and he hates it. His experience, sure (I'm sure many disagree), but that's how he feels!

[Axw_JD]

Saying that circumcision helps fight STDs is complete BS, and just a terrible interpretation of statistical data.

If I go out and interview 1000 people that eat Strawberries, and then look at their medical history and see if they have ever had any STDs, I am pretty sure I could arrive to the conclusion (in the exact same way they concluded circumcision helps prevent STDs) that eating Strawberries makes it less likely for you to catch an STD.

Now see the problem with that logic? No? Well, it wasn't a study of having 1000 people and half of them eating strawberries and half of them not, then exposing them to STDs and seeing if the ones that ate strawberries were less likely to be infected. Same thing with the circumcision "studies" They didn't take a bunch of guys and circumcised half of them, then had them have unprotected sex with infected people to see if they were more or less likely to catch a disease.

Those studies are misguided at best, and just a plain out lie at worst, to support a barbaric, cosmetic surgery with no real benefits (I was circumcised as a baby. I still was just as likely as anyone else to have UTIs, and I am pretty damn sure if I go out and have sex with people with STDs with no protection I will catch one!) and a pretty damn high risk (ever heard of people ending up with misfigured or completely useless sexual organs because of this? Or even worse, dead because of complications?)

There is no better way to protect anyone against STDs than educating them and said person remembering to always use a condom, and thats it. No amount of sexual mutilation will make it less likely for the infection to happen, the only difference is the amount of sexual pleasure the person would feel.

[crumbs]

Just keep in mind what you're having done is basically pure cosmetic surgery and will drastically alter the look of your penis. Only thing is, it's a cosmetic alteration with no control over the outcome. You don't get a say in how thick or dark your circumcision scar will be, or how much skin will be removed which will heavily affect your ability to masturbate with or without lubricant for the rest of your life (also, intercourse). Also, how much of your penis shaft will now be covered in scar tissue from your inner foreskin.

I know you might have an idea in your head about the "nice looking circumcised willy" but most of them don't end up looking like the porno stars! haha..

It's also quite common to need further corrective surgery if anything goes wrong, including taking off too much skin, too little skin, damage to your glans or if your remaining skin forms skin bridges with your glans due to your body's natural reaction to losing so much skin that belongs there (it tries to grow back while still healing, and thus can re-attach to your glans in parts.) This means corrective surgery and can go on for years.

Sounds great hey.

[oneDay]

Saying that circumcision helps fight STDs is complete BS, and just a terrible interpretation of statistical data.

If I go out and interview 1000 people that eat Strawberries, and then look at their medical history and see if they have ever had any STDs, I am pretty sure I could arrive to the conclusion (in the exact same way they concluded circumcision helps prevent STDs) that eating Strawberries makes it less likely for you to catch an STD.

Now see the problem with that logic? No? Well, it wasn't a study of having 1000 people and half of them eating strawberries and half of them not, then exposing them to STDs and seeing if the ones that ate strawberries were less likely to be infected. Same thing with the circumcision "studies" They didn't take a bunch of guys and circumcised half of them, then had them have unprotected sex with infected people to see if they were more or less likely to catch a disease.

Those studies are misguided at best, and just a plain out lie at worst, to support a barbaric, cosmetic surgery with no real benefits (I was circumcised as a baby. I still was just as likely as anyone else to have UTIs, and I am pretty damn sure if I go out and have sex with people with STDs with no protection I will catch one!) and a pretty damn high risk (ever heard of people ending up with misfigured or completely useless sexual organs because of this? Or even worse, dead because of complications?)

There is no better way to protect anyone against STDs than educating them and said person remembering to always use a condom, and thats it. No amount of sexual mutilation will make it less likely for the infection to happen, the only difference is the amount of sexual pleasure the person would feel.

The point is that there are many confounding factors not taken into consideration when most of these studies are conducted. Just because a little "statistical" data shows a trend that people who have been circumcised have fewer STD's than those who haven't does not prove that circumcision reduces the risk of getting an STD. Most, if not all, statistical data about circumcision is based on observational studies, not experiments. Experiments are meant to reduce confounding factors, including ones similar to the aforementioned one above, and reduce as much bias as possible. They impose very specific treatments to subjects and collect data based on the effects, which is the only scientific way to ensure accurate information. Observations, however, cannot be as accurate, so the results should only go so far in their use and purpose, since there is hardly any true evidence to support a finding. I personally believe that on that basis alone their isn't good enough reason to convince me that circumcision reduces your chances for STD's, or any infection, for that matter.
I'd like to make another argument (one about parenting) if I get a response to this. Tell me if you care to hear, thanks.

[HunterSteele]

Idk about your family bro, but in mine my penis isn't considered the "family penis", and the decisions about what does and doesn't happen to my penis are not family decisions that my parents "debate" on and then tell me what is going to happen
Ahahahaha, I'm picturing a council of your family sitting around a table and debating what do with their communal penis. But funny as it may be, you don't need to make it sound the OP is doing something wrong by going along with the operation. Just because your family respects your decisions in regards to what to do with your body doesn't mean that's the case for everyone else, and it's not their fault if it's not.

I got circumcised when I was around 8 years old. My mom thought I was urinating "too often" and thought circumcision would fix it. It's not as big a deal as everyone makes it. I remember waking up after the operation and seeing blood all over the place, and my penis hurt a lot. The recovery process was pretty painful. Going to the bathroom was difficult, and there was this messy cream I had to put on it.

It hasn't changed my life at all. Eight years later I've forgotten all about it.

We're not supposed to "story tell" here? I never knew that.
Not of sexual encounters or experiences, but the OPs story was nothing like that.

[Telkanis]

Hit wrong button and didnt actually mean to post but anyway, thanks for everyone's opinions. Sorry if it seems I'm totally ignoring your point of view but I also have to take other things into account that are hard to explain on here. And yeah legally if I put my foot down parents can't but it could make the next five ears living with them awkward.

[Arther443]

Get ready to lose a lot of sensation down there...

[CuriousityKills]

Hey, one question. Can you pull your foreskin back? I can't and I need to get cut. I need to schedule it soon so it doesn't interfere with track season, but doing it so soon might be financially . . . sucky.

[Ktothep]

dont do it

[Duke Blue Devils]

Ultimately, it's your choice in the end.

[sdude]

It should be your choice. I'm 17 and, believe me, the confrontations with things your parents want or don't want you to do will happen anyway, but if it were MY penis, they would be the LAST ones who make the decision for me to cut it off!!! As long as I was old enough to TALK, it would have been NO F!!kin WAY!!!

[sdude]

Hey, one question. Can you pull your foreskin back? I can't and I need to get cut. I need to schedule it soon so it doesn't interfere with track season, but doing it so soon might be financially . . . sucky.

You just need to stretch it dude...don't cut off what nature gave you!!

[Gigablue]

There is a lot of misinformation in this thread. Firstly. The American Academy of Paediatrics no longer recommends routine infant circumcision, and certainly doesn't recommend non infant circumcision without a specific medical indication. The benefits don't outweigh the risks.

There are some health benefits from circumcision, but they are frequently overstated. Circumcision halves the risk of female to male transmission of HIV. However, female to male transmission of HIV is rare, since male to male transmission and intravenous drug use are much more significant routes of transmission in developed countries. There is no evidence that circumcision reduces the risk of any other STI. Anyone who says it reduces all STIs is wrong.

Circumcision can also reduce the risk of penile cancer, and while this reduction is significant, penile cancer is a very rare disease. Also, the reduction in risk is only significant when circumcision is preformed shortly after birth or during childhood. For adult circumcision, there is no significant risk reduction.

There are also risks. There is a long healing time following circumcision, especially if it is preformed later in life. Abstinence from all sexual activity is necessary during this time. There are also some rare but serious side effects, such as infection or excess bleeding.

You do have the right to refuse if you want to. No doctor would preform a circumcision if you explicitly refused. Ultimately the decision is yours, not your parents'.

[oneDay]

There is a lot of misinformation in this thread. Firstly. The American Academy of Paediatrics no longer recommends routine infant circumcision, and certainly doesn't recommend non infant circumcision without a specific medical indication. The benefits don't outweigh the risks.

There are some health benefits from circumcision, but they are frequently overstated. Circumcision halves the risk of female to male transmission of HIV. However, female to male transmission of HIV is rare, since male to male transmission and intravenous drug use are much more significant routes of transmission in developed countries. There is no evidence that circumcision reduces the risk of any other STI. Anyone who says it reduces all STIs is wrong.

Circumcision can also reduce the risk of penile cancer, and while this reduction is significant, penile cancer is a very rare disease. Also, the reduction in risk is only significant when circumcision is preformed shortly after birth or during childhood. For adult circumcision, there is no significant risk reduction.

There are also risks. There is a long healing time following circumcision, especially if it is preformed later in life. Abstinence from all sexual activity is necessary during this time. There are also some rare but serious side effects, such as infection or excess bleeding.

You do have the right to refuse if you want to. No doctor would preform a circumcision if you explicitly refused. Ultimately the decision is yours, not your parents'.

Thank you, it's as simple as this.
Zach if you are uncomfortable with getting circumcised and if you know your body well enough to honestly say that circumcision is unnecessary, you should stand up for yourself and tell you parents (or your doctor) no. Again, it's your choice, make the one you know is best.

[Luke91]

August 27, 2012

From the American Academy of Pediatrics
Policy Statement

Circumcision Policy Statement

TASK FORCE ON CIRCUMCISION



Abstract

Male circumcision is a common procedure, generally performed during the newborn period in the United States. In 2007, the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) formed a multidisciplinary task force of AAP members and other stakeholders to evaluate the recent evidence on male circumcision and update the Academy’s 1999 recommendations in this area. Evaluation of current evidence indicates that the health benefits of newborn male circumcision outweigh the risks and that the procedure’s benefits justify access to this procedure for families who choose it. Specific benefits identified included prevention of urinary tract infections, penile cancer, and transmission of some sexually transmitted infections, including HIV. The American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists has endorsed this statement.

[niceguy887]

Hey, one question. Can you pull your foreskin back? I can't and I need to get cut. I need to schedule it soon so it doesn't interfere with track season, but doing it so soon might be financially . . . sucky.

There are ways to retract it safely without getting circumcised...

[Luke91]

Hey, one question. Can you pull your foreskin back? I can't and I need to get cut. I need to schedule it soon so it doesn't interfere with track season, but doing it so soon might be financially . . . sucky.

This post has attracted a lot of fiction writers. The only people who can truely tell you what it is like getting cut is someone that has had it done when they were old enough to remember it. I was circumcised at 13 and I remember it well. The doctor and medicine took care of the pain. I was sore for a week or 2 but no big deal. Now I love the results. Looks better, smells better and I love the feel. If I had to do it again, the only thing I would do differently would be to have it done earlier. Good luck and I hope the finance part works out. I wanted it bad enough I told my parents they could use my savings.

Umm, the studies they showed me are all within the last 5 years and the American pediatrics association just came out saying benefits outweighed risk. There was another one that came out last month that said dropping rates would cause healthcare costs to go up. So on that I believe they're right.

I'm not really in favor of it and will probably leave my kids intact but I'm not going to argue with the overall science because I don't know enough about it. My parents take a pretty black and white view of stuff and if they're shown that something is scientifically better they'll do it like dad is going through renovating a lot of the house to make it energy efficient. I'm sure the renovations are costing a lot more than we will ever save.

I just hope it's over fast like they promise and recovery isn't too bad.

Zach,
I think you are making the right decision by going on with it. I have been through it and everything will turn out fine. Your parents are trying to look out for your best interest. Trust them and not those who are trying to discourage you. Good luck and look forward to your Christmas dive trip.

Posts merged, please don't double post, use the edit button instead next time or the multi quote feature~Skyfall

[Giles]

Looks better, smells better and I love the feel.

What you think of a penis is subjective, just because you think it looks better it doesn't mean that anyone else thinks that. If your penis was smelling when you were uncircumcised then you were doing something wrong, there's no reason for it to be smelling unless you've not washed for a week and a circumcised penis would start to smell after that long anyway.

Zach,
I think you are making the right decision by going on with it. I have been through it and everything will turn out fine. Your parents are trying to look out for your best interest. Trust them and not those who are trying to discourage you. Good luck and look forward to your Christmas dive trip.

You can't possibly tell him that everything will turn out fine, it might have went well for you but it doesn't and won't for everyone. This isn't without risks, nothing is, there's a lot of things that can go wrong both during the procedure and afterwards.

I can understand that he should trust his parents and they definitely are looking out for his best interest, however, they're clearly basing their decision on inaccurate, unreliable and outdated information. It stops becoming fair to their son when they're doing it just because they feel like it - he should be listening to people that have done actual research and know more about the few positives and significantly more negatives.

[Tommy123]

Dude, I got one when I was a baby and I couldn't walk for a year

[TigerBoy]

I totally agree with the view that this is a bad idea and you should not go ahead with it just to keep your parents happy. Once it is done, it is done.

In the UK this is ONLY done for (exceptional) medical reasons, certainly not routinely, and not for religious reasons, and we are not all dropping dead of STDs or penile cancer with a circumcision rate of 8.5% vs the US of 75%. In spite of such a huge difference the statistics do not show a benefit

In this article http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/magazine-19072761 I read that the amusingly named Dr Wang states:

Wang says most parents come in with fervent beliefs - and what a doctor says makes little difference.

"The bottom line is... they stick to their guns. They choose the pieces of information that bolster their argument and run with that."

The US has not ratified the UN Convention on Rights of the Child which included discussion about protecting kids in your position. Europe is picking this concept up with some countries calling for a minimum age of 18.

An anti-circumcision lobby has so far pursuaded 18 US states to stop providing male circumcision as part of Medicaid.

The reason circumcision is so popular in the US is probably because a founder of your medical association (Dr Lewis Sayre) was a huge fan of it, but that was 150 years ago.

[Sephtyan]

I just want to let you know that uncircumcised does feel better. I would never, EVER allow myself to be circumcised. I can mostly avoid STDs (since I'm foreveralone) by using condoms and just plain smarts. Saying that you need to get circumcised due to health problems in honestly not a very strong argument. I'm uncircumcised and I've never had a genital-based complication. I am sexually active, and (no I am not proud of this, I found out after the fact) I have had sex with someone who not only slept around that same night but that also had an active infection.
*shudder*
Anyway, I avoided it by a combination of wearing a condom and just plain showering right after. I plan to make it a habit to always wash right after intercourse, just seems logical.
If you don't want to do this, there's no good reason why you should have to, seeing as the main argument for it can so easily be circumvented (heh). I'll just say this again: it feels better, both during sex and masturbation, if you're uncut. There's a thread on that last point somewhere in here... I've posted in there myself so I know it exists. Main thing, don't do something so permanent if you really don't want to.

[Gigablue]

Zach,
I think you are making the right decision by going on with it. I have been through it and everything will turn out fine. Your parents are trying to look out for your best interest. Trust them and not those who are trying to discourage you. Good luck and look forward to your Christmas dive trip.

You can't say everything will turn out fine. Any medical procedure has some risk. While circumcision is relatively safe, there can still be serious complications. Most complications can be treated, but circumcision has lead to severe infection and even death in some cases. It is fair to say that circumcision is usually very safe, but saying everything will go wrong is simply factually incorrect.

[Scottydog]

I see your point! But if my parents asked me to get cut, it go mad tbh! But thats just me!

[Shining Star]

Hit wrong button and didnt actually mean to post but anyway, thanks for everyone's opinions. Sorry if it seems I'm totally ignoring your point of view but I also have to take other things into account that are hard to explain on here. And yeah legally if I put my foot down parents can't but it could make the next five ears living with them awkward.

Well regardless what everyone says on here, those are their opinions, you should do what is best for you and your situation. :)

[crumbs]

Hit wrong button and didnt actually mean to post but anyway, thanks for everyone's opinions. Sorry if it seems I'm totally ignoring your point of view but I also have to take other things into account that are hard to explain on here. And yeah legally if I put my foot down parents can't but it could make the next five ears living with them awkward.

How about spending the rest of your life with worse sex and reduced sensitivity in the best parts of your penis?

Jus' saying.

[Gmw12]

Just get it over with. You'll be happy once it's over and done with

[Coolboi]

wow what a post the people agree an disagree !
I just hope you make the right decision an you will
it's just a piece of skin that covers your penis head .
kinda scary to get it cut off I guess mine was done
at birth I'm sure it must of hurt an I hope all goes
Good for you :-) =D you'll make the right decision
good luck too you .

[GuillaumeBordeaux]

Hey man, a few questions and some insight for you.
Have you ever masturbated? Are you sexually active? Have you experimented with it yet? If so, doesn't it feel really good? The gliding, the lubrication, the sensitive head?
Guess what :X
that gliding, lubrication and sensitive head go away when you get circumcised. D:
It may not be immediate, but when you are older, say 40 or 50, you will have built up a skin layer on your penis head that makes it difficult to feel any sexual sensation. That being said, it's gonna be really hard to get an erection and ejaculate. Those friends and relatives you spoke with aren't quite at that age yet so they wouldn't know. Your father, (if he is cut and I am assuming he is) wouldn't have noticed his declining sensation yet because its very gradual. :l Also, there's scarring, which is quite unattractive. Imagine a brown ring around your penis, 'cause that's what it is. Also, on the underside of your penis, you have the frenulum and the ridged band (thing rubber band, that thing that snaps your foreskin back up) those are really sensitive and feel really good to play around with. Yeah, those things almost always get cut off with circumcision. I would think really really really long and hard on whether you want to cut your sexual stimulation and fun by more than half, closer to 3/4ths before you do it. ALSO, assuming you are heterosexual, the foreskin does essential things in intercourse. It catches at the beginning of the vagina and stays there stimulating the penis as you withdraw and go back in. Without it, you're just rubbing the inside of the vagina raw which any woman will attest can be unpleasant after a while. Friction isn't how women experience sexual stimulation, it's pressure (among other methods but that;s a different convo)

Also there is the chance that you won't have enough skin left over for proper penis development and your scrotum could be pulled up onto the penis shaft and cause gross webbing, think turkey neck on your penis. Alsoooooo, circumcision can make you grow hairy on the penis itself, when it's only supposed to have hair on the testicles and around the base of the penis. Some circumcised men have hair up to half way up their penis. It's not natural and it is uncomfortable during intercourse.

[NSoKShannon]

If you really don't want to, then just don't. I think that you should be able to choose.

[hollisterboi95]

I say get it over with. And also I want to know why you're doing this? Ask em to let you keep it As a Christmas present? I would really try to persuade them To let me keep it.

[cjpc]

Hey, sorry this post is so late and last minute, but I felt I needed to say something at least. I just wanted to say make sure you thoroughly think about your decision as it is permanent, and if you don't want to get cut (as it seems you don't) don't do it.

I'm fairly certain if you try explain to your parents in a firm manner that you don't want it done that they would listen to you. It is your penis after all.

I personally, was cut when I was born and have never had any issues with it. However, I have always kind of wondered what it would be like to be uncut. From what I've heard/read the loss of sensation probably isn't worth it. You can at least make a decision about it. Regardless, good luck and whichever way you decide I hope it turns out well for you!

[Andore]

Hey, sorry this post is so late and last minute, but I felt I needed to say something at least. I just wanted to say make sure you thoroughly think about your decision as it is permanent, and if you don't want to get cut (as it seems you don't) don't do it.

I'm fairly certain if you try explain to your parents in a firm manner that you don't want it done that they would listen to you. It is your penis after all.

I personally, was cut when I was born and have never had any issues with it. However, I have always kind of wondered what it would be like to be uncut. From what I've heard/read the loss of sensation probably isn't worth it. You can at least make a decision about it. Regardless, good luck and whichever way you decide I hope it turns out well for you!

I don't think he's getting it done today so you're not too late =)

Is anywhere even open in America on Thanksgiving?

[Telkanis]

Lol, thanks for everyone's advice. Anyway it as on Monday so it's all done. It sucked but wasn't as bad as I thought it would be.

[lhatchy1]

Sounds fair enough, doing it early sounds like a good decision.

[dingo006]

its good to hear you are alight. Keep us informed about the after effects. It would be interesting to hear about the after effects as well.

[Andore]

Lol, thanks for everyone's advice. Anyway it as on Monday so it's all done. It sucked but wasn't as bad as I thought it would be.

Did you get any choice in how it was done?

If you conceded to your parents on having it done at least they could let you choose

[Luke91]

Congratulations on having the courage to have it done after all those who put in their negative opinions as to how it would be. If you are anything like me, the best is now to come. Give it time to heal and you will see.

[crumbs]

Congratulations on having the courage to have it done after all those who put in their negative opinions as to how it would be.

Actually, the "negativity" surrounded the fact that his parents were forcing him to have an unnecessary operation performed on his genitals that he didn't want done. But whatever you say mate! :rolleyes:

[Telkanis]

Umm, thanks for everyone's support. Can a mod lock this? It's done and really don't want this to turn into some kinda bicker fest. That's not going to accomplish anything.

[niceguy887]

Congratulations on having the courage to have it done after all those who put in their negative opinions as to how it would be. If you are anything like me, the best is now to come. Give it time to heal and you will see.

Real courage would have been standing up to his parents. But that's just me. Maybe we do things differently here in Canada.

[Andore]

Real courage would have been standing up to his parents. But that's just me. Maybe we do things differently here in Canada.

Beginning to think this is another bogus thread. He's not really listened to anybody and gone with his original post then wants the thread closed the second its over

[Giles]

Beginning to think this is another bogus thread. He's not really listened to anybody and gone with his original post then wants the thread closed the second its over

Can't say I blame him tbh. Although I don't agree with what he did decide to do this thread did turn into a huge circlejerk of everyone repeating what other people said before them.

Umm, thanks for everyone's support. Can a mod lock this? It's done and really don't want this to turn into some kinda bicker fest. That's not going to accomplish anything.

If you report your original post and request it to get locked them it'll get locked.

[Telkanis]

You know what I really don't care. I should've never posted about it on here. All I was asking was if it was better over thanksgiving or Christmas not a big debate on if its evil or start a civil war against my parents. Sorry I even posted.

[sparkles]

Some of you have been incredibly rude. Please respect the decision that the poster has made, even if you disagree.

[oneDay]

Zach has been brave enough to accept the decision his parents made and I'm happy it's gone well for him. I'm just bothered by the fact that he's had very little choice in something he wasn't given enough reason for; I would have demanded to know why I'd be getting a circumcision just as much as he did and I wouldn't have let it happen until I knew as much as I could.
But what's done is done so good luck Zach.

[niceguy887]

Some of you have been incredibly rude. Please respect the decision that the poster has made, even if you disagree.

I have no problem with that kind of decision, if it comes from the individual. The problem here is that it was forced upon him. Why shouldn't we be mad. As a baby, it's one thing, but at 13? That's borderline abuse in my mind.

The OP is right about one thing. He never should have posted this in the first place. As you all can see, it's a very emotionally charged issue.

That's all from me. No sense beating a dead horse.

[StoppingTime]

Umm, thanks for everyone's support. Can a mod lock this? It's done and really don't want this to turn into some kinda bicker fest. That's not going to accomplish anything.


Sure, and I'm glad everything worked out. :)

You know what I really don't care. I should've never posted about it on here. All I was asking was if it was better over thanksgiving or Christmas not a big debate on if its evil or start a civil war against my parents. Sorry I even posted.

To everyone in this thread, he's right. Nobody wanted to hear your opinions on whether it was right or wrong; that was already decided. So next time, instead of ruining a thread, just look at the question asked, and answer it. Don't add your own (possibly skewed) opinions to it.


:locked2: