Can penile circumcision be performed for medical reasons in adulthood?

Yes, penile circumcision can be performed for medical reasons in adulthood. While circumcision is more commonly associated with religious, cultural, or personal preferences, there are medical conditions that might necessitate circumcision later in life. Some of these medical reasons include:

1. Phimosis:

• Phimosis is a condition in which the foreskin is too tight to be pulled back over the head of the penis. This can cause discomfort, difficulty with hygiene, and potentially lead to infections. Circumcision or other surgical procedures might be considered to address severe cases of phimosis.

2. Paraphimosis:

• Paraphimosis occurs when the foreskin becomes trapped behind the head of the penis and cannot be returned to its normal position. This condition is considered a medical emergency and requires immediate attention. In some cases, circumcision might be recommended to prevent future episodes.

3. Recurrent Infections:

• Some individuals might experience frequent infections of the foreskin or glans, which can lead to discomfort and health issues. Circumcision might be considered as a way to reduce the risk of infections.

4. Balanitis:

• Balanitis is inflammation of the glans (head of the penis) and can be caused by various factors, including infection or poor hygiene. In some cases, circumcision might be recommended to alleviate recurrent or severe cases of balanitis.

5. Frenulum Issues:

• The frenulum is the band of tissue on the underside of the penis that connects the glans to the shaft. In some cases, issues with the frenulum might cause discomfort or pain during sexual activity. Circumcision or frenuloplasty might be options to address this.

6. Trauma or Injury:

• Severe trauma or injury to the foreskin or penis might necessitate surgical intervention, including circumcision, to repair the damage and restore normal function.