March 24--30 is Genital Integrity Awareness Week.
What is "Genital Integrity"?
Genital Integrity is the phrase used to describe leaving a baby's genitals intact -- not circumcising. Some also use the term "Genital Autonomy", which means leaving the decision (whether to alter the genitals or not) up to the child (when he becomes an adult).
Why Question Circumcision?
For a long time in the U.S., circumcision was just "something you did". I believe anything that we "just do" should always be questioned -- if you don't know WHY you're choosing a medical intervention or procedure, there's a problem with that.
Circumcision rates peaked in the 1970's, and started to fall again in the early 2000's. In 2010, about 58% of newborn boys in the U.S. were circumcised; the rate is about 30% in Canada, and less than 20% in Europe.
Circumcision rates peaked in the 1970's, and started to fall again in the early 2000's. In 2010, about 58% of newborn boys in the U.S. were circumcised; the rate is about 30% in Canada, and less than 20% in Europe.
Circumcision is a religious and cultural part of the Jewish and Muslim faiths. Many secular American families adopted the practice because of hygiene and their personal family tradition (so son would look like dad). However as more information is made available to the public, parents have begun to question whether or not to circumcise their sons. This has lead to a scrutiny over the studies showing the benefits of circumcision, and continued debate over the AAP's ambiguous policy statement.
If you'd like to learn more about circumcision and its potential risks, potential benefits, and controversy, please visit Circumcision -- Evidence-Based Information for Parents. Please take this week to learn and consider your options before making this important decision for your son.
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