Circumcision is a common and often personal decision, performed for religious, cultural, medical, or personal reasons. Whether for infants or adults, the procedure involves the removal of the foreskin from the penis, and like any surgical procedure, it comes with a healing process that requires proper care. That’s where post circumcision care becomes vital, not only for a smooth recovery but also to avoid unnecessary discomfort or complications.In this guide, we at The Ottawa Circumcision Clinic will walk you through what to expect after the procedure, how to care for the area, and when to call your doctor. Let’s start.
What to Expect After Circumcision
For infants, mild swelling, redness, and a yellow film (which looks like pus but is actually part of normal healing) are typical in the first few days. Some fussiness and crying may occur, but it should settle within a day or two.Essential Post-Circumcision Care Tips
Proper post circumcision care is mostly about cleanliness, comfort, and watching for changes. Let’s talk about the basics of post-circumcision care:Keep the Area Clean and Dry
Use wipes (water-based) or warm water to gently clean the procedure. No soap, or rubbing.
Apply Petroleum Jelly
petroleum jelly helps prevent the wound from sticking to diapers or clothing. This reduces irritation and supports faster healing.Diapering Tips for Babies
Change diapers frequently and apply a thin layer of jelly to the healing site with each change. Use a soft, loose diaper to prevent rubbing.Excessive Bleeding
A few drops of blood are okay, but if bleeding continues or worsens, it needs medical attention.Fever or Unusual Crying (in Infants)
If your baby develops a fever over 38°C (100.4°F) or cries excessively even after comfort or feeding, it could be a sign of infection or discomfort.
Pus or Foul Odour
While yellow crusting is normal, thick pus or a foul smell is not.Swelling That Gets Worse
Some swelling is expected, but if it worsens after the third day or becomes painful, it may need evaluation.
It’s always better to call your clinic if something doesn’t feel right. Prompt care can prevent small issues from becoming bigger problems.
How Long Does Healing Take?
Healing time depends on age and individual response:
Infants generally heal in 7 to 14 days. The site should appear much better by the end of the first week, with most swelling gone.
During healing, you’ll notice the wound change colour slightly, with scabbing or crusting appearing and disappearing. That’s normal. It means your body is doing its job.
When to Schedule a Follow-Up
Not all cases require an in-person follow-up, but many families and individuals choose to return for peace of mind.
At The Ottawa Circumcision Clinic, we may schedule a quick check-in visit (especially for infants) to:
- Review the healing process
- Make sure the area is free of infection
- Answer any lingering questions
Even if a follow-up isn’t scheduled, you’re encouraged to call us if you’re unsure about how things are progressing.
To Summarize
Proper post circumcision care is mostly about being gentle, observant, and proactive. For most patients, the healing process is smooth and uneventful. But staying informed helps you recognize when something might need more attention.
If you’re preparing for a circumcision or helping a loved one recover, use this guide as your starting point. Take comfort in knowing that healing is a step-by-step process, and you're not alone in it.
Need help or have questions about care? Contact The Ottawa Circumcision Clinic. We're here to support your family through every stage, from the procedure to a healthy recovery.