Benefits of Male Circumcision
Male circumcision provides substantial, evidence-based health benefits including a 53-60% reduction in heterosexual HIV acquisition, protection against multiple sexually transmitted infections, prevention of urinary tract infections, and reduction in penile cancer risk, with benefits that outweigh the procedural risks. 1
HIV Prevention
- Voluntary male circumcision reduces heterosexual HIV acquisition by 53-60%, with durable and cost-effective protection. 1
- This protective effect is measurable at the population level and has led WHO and UNAIDS to recommend voluntary male circumcision for HIV prevention in priority countries in sub-Saharan Africa with generalized epidemics and low male circumcision prevalence. 1
- Over 1 million men have undergone this procedure as part of HIV prevention programs. 1
- Some epidemiological data suggest circumcision might be protective for men who have sex with men who engage in primarily insertive anal sex, though no trials have been conducted in this population. 1
Sexually Transmitted Infection Protection
- Circumcision decreases transmission of genital human papillomavirus (HPV) and herpes simplex virus 2 (HSV-2). 1
- The procedure provides protection from ulcerative sexually transmitted diseases including syphilis and chancroid. 2, 3
- In female partners, male circumcision provides substantial protection from cervical cancer and chlamydia. 2
- Lack of circumcision has been identified as a biologic factor that influences sexual transmission of HIV. 1
Urinary Tract and Penile Health
- Circumcision prevents urinary tract infections, particularly important in infants. 4, 5
- The procedure provides protection from penile cancer. 4, 2, 3
- Circumcision prevents phimosis and associated complications. 2
- The procedure reduces risk of inflammatory dermatoses and thrush. 2
Additional Medical Benefits
- Circumcision provides protection from prostate cancer. 2
- The procedure is particularly beneficial for males with certain urologic conditions including isolated hydronephrosis, vesicoureteral reflux, and ureteropelvic junction obstruction. 6
- Circumcision has socio-sexual benefits and reduces sexual problems with age. 2
Safety and Sexual Function
- The American Academy of Pediatrics concluded that evaluation of current evidence indicates the health benefits of newborn male circumcision outweigh the risks. 4, 5
- Male circumcision does not adversely affect penile sexual function, sensitivity, or sexual satisfaction. 4
- The procedure has no adverse effect on penile sensitivity, function, or sensation during sexual arousal. 2
- In experienced hands, this common, inexpensive procedure is very safe and can be pain-free when performed at any age. 2
- Significant acute complications are rare, with complications developing in approximately 1 of every 200 procedures. 4, 6
Important Caveats
- While adult male circumcision has not been associated with direct protection of female partners, with wider implementation, whole populations will likely benefit. 1
- Circumcision does not ensure complete protection against disease recurrence, as lichen sclerosus can recur even after circumcision in 50% of cases requiring the procedure. 1
- The procedure should be performed by trained and competent practitioners using sterile techniques and effective pain management. 4