One of the most frequently asked questions about circumcision: does a circumcision hurt? Although it is a medical procedure, everything is done to prevent pain as far as possible. In this article we explain how pain during and after a circumcision is managed, what you can expect from recovery and what to look out for.
How much pain do you feel during the circumcision?
Many people expect to feel pain during the procedure itself. Fortunately, methods are used that make the procedure practically painless. Here is how it works.
Anaesthetic during the procedure
A circumcision is always carried out under local anaesthetic or sedation. The anaesthetic ensures that the procedure is painless. The skin around the penis is numbed with a local injection, or sedation is used, in which case the patient is fully sedated and notices nothing of the procedure.
Many patients are surprised
Many patients are surprised by how quickly and smoothly the treatment goes. Particularly with modern methods such as the clamp method, the procedure is short and precise.
Pain after the procedure?
Although the procedure itself is painless, you can experience some pain afterwards. Fortunately this pain is usually experienced as mild to moderate, and there are ways to counter it.
Pain in the first hours and days
Once the anaesthetic has worn off, usually after a few hours, some tenderness, a burning sensation or mild pain can develop. This is normal and easy to manage with painkillers such as paracetamol. For children it is often advised to give a painkiller as a precaution as soon as the anaesthetic starts to wear off.
Recovery period and how the pain develops
Most people experience the pain as mild to moderate, particularly during the first few days. In young children recovery is usually faster than in adults. The skin can be somewhat swollen or red, and the glans is more sensitive because it is suddenly uncovered. After about a week most of the discomfort has gone.
What helps against the pain?
- Paracetamol or ibuprofen as advised by the doctor
- Wearing loose fitting underwear or clothing
- Cleaning regularly with lukewarm water
- Avoiding friction or exertion during the first few days
So how painful is a circumcision really?
So, does a circumcision hurt? During the procedure itself you will not feel any pain. Thanks to effective anaesthetic or sedation, most children and adults find the procedure very manageable. Most people experience pain in the days after the procedure. Fortunately this pain is temporary and can be countered well with painkillers such as paracetamol or ibuprofen.
Do you have questions, or would you like to know what to expect in your situation? Feel free to contact us for a personal intake consultation.
