Circumcision is one of the oldest known surgical procedures in medicine. Circumcision of males has been widely practiced as a religious rite since ancient times. An initiatory rite of Judaism, circumcision is also practiced by Muslims, for whom it signifies spiritual purification. Worldwide one in six men are circumcised, and every year it is estimated that there are about 15 million post-infancy circumcisions performed, which makes circumcision the most commonly performed surgical procedure. Although its origins are unknown, earliest evidence of the practice dates from ancient Egypt (2300 BC, see above). By the time of the Roman takeover of Egypt (30 BC), the practice had a ritual significance. In the United States, Canada, Australia and throughout the Middle East and Africa, circumcision is still performed routinely on boys from infancy to adolescence. Further many males chose this procedure during adulthood. Additionally, some adult females also choose to have this procedure performed.
This web site is designed to answer questions about infant, childhood and adult circumcision. It covers the facts about this procedure and how it is performed. The site provides individuals who have chosen circumcision a forum to let others who may be considering the procedure benefit from their experience. Parents are encouraged to use this web site as a guide to help them decide what is best for their son. Those considering the procedure for themselves are encouraged to use this web site as a guide to help them get the information they seek regarding circumcision.
Warning: This website contains actual before, during and after photos of circumcision, photos of the instruments used in circumcision, illustrative drawings, and samples of particularly interesting circumcision results. Because circumcision is performed on the human genitals, it naturally contains photos of these areas. The images contained in this site are therefore graphic medical images that some may find difficult to view. Minors should only view this information with the permission and under the supervision of a parent or guardian. Please read our Legal Disclaimers before entering the site.
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This site was developed and is maintained by CIRCLIST, the Internet based circumcision discussion group.
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