Frequently Asked Questions About Circumcision

What is circumcision?

Circumcision refers to the surgical removal of the foreskin in men. At SF-cliniken, circumcision is performed for medical reasons, not for cosmetic or religious purposes.

Why might someone seek circumcision?

• Tight foreskin (phimosis): Phimosis means that the foreskin is too tight to be pulled back over the glans. This can sometimes cause pain when the penis is erect and, in rare cases, may make it difficult to urinate.
• Recurrent balanitis: Balanitis refers to inflammation and irritation of the glans and foreskin.
• Paraphimosis: Paraphimosis occurs when the foreskin cannot return to its original position after being pulled back, causing swelling and pain in the glans.
  Immediate treatment is needed to avoid serious complications such as restricted blood flow. Seek emergency care!
• Penile cancer: Penile cancer is an extremely rare type of cancer that causes wart-like growths or sores on the tip of the penis or under the foreskin, or results in bleeding, discharge, or skin changes on the penis or foreskin.

Is circumcision the only treatment option?

In most cases, circumcision is recommended only after other less invasive and lower-risk treatment options have been tried and found ineffective.
Mild cases of phimosis can be treated with topical steroids that help soften the skin.

What risks are associated with circumcision?

In the Nordic countries, complications from medically indicated circumcisions are rare, and most men do not experience significant problems.
In addition to initial swelling, bleeding and infection are the two most common issues related to circumcision.