Adult circumcision is chosen for medical, personal, cultural, or psychological reasons, including foreskin conditions, hygiene concerns, and body confidence. The procedure is safe when performed by trained clinicians, with a short surgical time and a longer recovery than infant circumcision. Understanding motivations, risks, and recovery helps men make informed decisions.
This blog will explore the medical, cultural, and personal motivations for circumcision in adulthood, explain how the procedure works, and provide guidance on what to expect before and after surgery.
Many adult men choose circumcision because they feel self-conscious about not being circumcised – especially in social or intimate settings where they compare themselves to others who are circumcised. Concerns about body image and how partners may perceive the penis can influence the decision, even without medical symptoms.
Why Do People Get Circumcised?
Circumcision is the surgical removal of the foreskin—the skin covering the tip of the penis. For adults, reasons to undergo circumcision typically fall into two main categories:
1. Medical reasons:
Adults may seek circumcision to treat conditions that cause discomfort, infections, or functional problems. These include phimosis (where the foreskin is too tight to retract), recurrent balanitis (inflammation of the foreskin and glans), paraphimosis (where the foreskin gets stuck behind the head of the penis), genital warts, and skin diseases like lichen sclerosus that result in scarring and tightness.
2. Personal and cultural reasons:
Some men choose circumcision for hygiene benefits, improved comfort during sexual activity, or because of cultural, religious, or social beliefs. After becoming sexually active or moving out on their own, men often consider circumcision for these reasons.
3. Social and psychological considerations
Social and psychological considerations play a role for some men. Adult men may feel self-conscious about being uncircumcised, particularly in intimate relationships, locker rooms, or social environments where circumcision is common. Concerns about appearance, confidence, and partner perception can influence the decision, even when no medical issue is present.
Adult Circumcision: What It Means
Adult circumcision is distinct from infant or childhood circumcision primarily in timing, recovery, and decision-making. While infant circumcision is often done for cultural or preventive reasons with minimal recovery issues, adult circumcision requires a more involved surgical approach under anesthesia and a commitment to recovery. Adults usually consider circumcision either due to medical conditions developing later or personal preference.
The surgery typically takes under an hour and is performed by a urologist or trained surgeon. Postoperative care is essential to avoid complications, and men normally resume regular activities within a few weeks.
It’s important to note that being uncircumcised does not automatically cause health problems. Many uncircumcised men never experience complications and maintain good hygiene without difficulty. Adult circumcision is usually considered when symptoms, infections, or personal concerns arise that significantly affect comfort or quality of life.
There are several circumcision methods available in the UK, and the most appropriate technique depends on medical needs, anatomy, and patient preference. A qualified clinician will discuss the available options during consultation.
Medical Reasons for Circumcision
Several medical conditions prompt adult circumcision, including:
- Phimosis: A condition where the foreskin cannot be fully retracted, causing pain, inflammation, or trapping urine, leading to infections.
- Balanitis and Recurrent Infections: Chronic inflammation and infections affecting the foreskin and glans.
- Paraphimosis: A urological emergency where a tight foreskin stuck behind the glans restricts blood flow.
- Genital Warts and Skin Diseases: Conditions such as lichen sclerosus cause scarring and discomfort that may require removal of the foreskin.
- Cancer Risk Reduction: Circumcision before puberty has been linked to a lowered risk of penile cancer, though the condition is rare.
While circumcision has been associated with a reduced risk of penile cancer, it’s important to note that this cancer is rare. The protective effect is strongest when circumcision occurs before puberty, although adult circumcision may still offer some benefit by reducing chronic inflammation and infection risk.
While infant circumcision typically heals faster, adult circumcision requires a longer recovery period. Understanding the expected circumcision healing time can help patients set realistic expectations and plan accordingly.
Other Reasons Men Choose Circumcision
- Personal Preference: Men may opt for circumcision for cosmetic reasons or to feel more comfortable with their bodies.
- Cultural or Religious Motivations: Circumcision can be important for religious conversion or adherence to cultural norms and rites.
- Sexual and Hygiene Considerations: Many believe circumcision improves hygiene, reduces infections, and potentially enhances sexual performance by reducing pain or increasing ejaculatory latency.
How Does Circumcision Work?
The procedure involves the surgeon making two parallel incisions around the foreskin, removing the excess skin, and sewing the edges together. It is conducted under local or general anesthesia to minimize discomfort.
Recovery includes:
- Immediate ability to urinate post-surgery.
- Avoidance of sexual activity and strenuous exercise for 4 to 6 weeks to allow full healing.
- Use of antibiotics and basic pain medications for typically one week.
- Monitoring for common side effects such as swelling, slight bruising, or mild pain.
Most men return to work within a week, with stitches dissolving on their own during recovery. Many parents also consider the long-term health advantages, which are explained in detail in our guide on infant circumcision benefits and recovery.
How to Get Circumcised as an Adult
Adults seeking circumcision should first consult a general practitioner or urologist. The healthcare provider will evaluate medical needs, discuss reasons for circumcision, explain the procedure and recovery, and recommend the best surgical setting – private clinics or public health systems like the NHS. Medical consultation also involves discussing potential risks, benefits, and personal goals to ensure the decision is well-informed.
Risks and Considerations
Common risks of adult circumcision include:
- Bleeding and infection (generally low incidence under expert care).
- Changes in penile sensitivity, sometimes reduced, which may affect sexual function.
- Rare complications such as hematomas, poor wound healing, or cosmetic dissatisfaction.
- Need for follow-up care if complications or discomfort occur.
From a health perspective, circumcision can make genital hygiene easier by reducing the accumulation of smegma (dead skin cells and oils) beneath the foreskin. Some studies suggest circumcision may lower the risk of urinary tract infections and certain sexually transmitted infections, including HIV and HPV, particularly in high-risk populations.
Discussing potential side effects with a clinician and having realistic expectations about recovery time and outcomes is key. Research on circumcision’s impact on sexual sensation shows mixed results. Some men report little to no change, while others notice differences in sensitivity. Sexual satisfaction is influenced by many factors, and individual experiences vary, making pre-surgical discussion with a clinician essential.
When to See a Clinician
Men should seek medical advice if they experience:
- Persistent pain, swelling, or bleeding after circumcision.
- Symptoms of phimosis, recurrent infections, or difficulty retracting the foreskin.
- Any signs of unusual complications during or after recovery.
Timely professional evaluation helps to prevent or address complications effectively.
