Is Circumcision Painful? Here’s The Honest Truth

People say, ‘beauty is pain,’ like when you get a haircut or piercing that hurts a bit but looks good afterward. Is circumcision painful in the same way?

The word “circumcision” can make any man, young or old, shiver. Some guys have no choice but to go through it, while others try hard to avoid the pain.

In fact, according to 2019 news reports, numerous young people in the Philippines had to go under intense pressure and discomfort while getting circumcision.

Is it truly as painful as people claim, or is it just a scare tactic?

How Circumcision Is Performed?

So, although circumcision might be a taboo subject, we will explain it educationally. Circumcision is a surgical procedure that involves removing the foreskin, the skin covering the head of the penis. People do it for various reasons, either because of religious rite, cultural, or health.

The procedure starts with cleaning the area and applying an anesthetic to numb any pain. Once the area is numb, the doctor carefully cuts away the foreskin and may use stitches to close the wound.

The procedure usually takes about 30 minutes. Recovery usually around one to two weeks, with most discomfort going away after a few days.

Traditional vs Modern Circumcision

In the past, traditional circumcision in Malaysia was handled by experts like Tok Mudim. They used knives, blades, or scalpels—no anesthesia in sight! It took a whole lot of bravery to go through that.

Nowadays, the procedure is a bit less intense. Modern circumcision method is performed by certified surgeon with advanced technology and anesthesia, making it smoother and a lot more comfortable.

Here’s a comparison between traditional and modern circumcision techniques.

Aspect	Traditional Circumcision	Modern Circumcision
Technique	Usually involves a blade or scalpel (Tok Mudim or surgeon)	Uses advanced methods like lasers, staplers, or clamps
Pain Management	Limited or no anesthesia in some cases	Local anesthesia or numbing cream applied to reduce pain
Healing Time	Longer recovery, often 2-3 weeks	Shorter healing time, typically 1-2 weeks
Precision	May involve more manual cutting, higher chance of uneven cuts	More precise, often with automated tools ensuring cleaner cuts
Cost	Typically lower-cost, depending on the region or practitioner	Higher cost due to advanced tools and techniques
Risk of Infection	Potentially higher risk if not done in sterile environments	Lower risk of infection due to modern sterilization techniques
Popularity	Still common in some cultural and traditional practices	More widely used in medical settings and preferred by doctors

So, whether it’s the classic approach with a historical touch or the modern, tech-savvy method, both have their own unique ways of handling the task.

Read about Modern Circumcision Method : Laser vs Stapler Circumcision Here

The Big Question: Is Circumcision Painful?

During the Procedure

The big concern for many is whether circumcision hurts. Here’s the good news: during the procedure, pain is minimized thanks to the use of anesthesia.

A local anesthetic is applied to the area, which numbs it so you don’t feel much of anything while the procedure is being done.

It’s like putting a numbing cream on a painful spot—except this one works wonders. So, while you might be a bit nervous about the procedure, the anesthesia ensures that it’s mostly painless.

After the Procedure

Now, what about afterward?

You might experience some mild discomfort, which is completely normal. It’s similar to the feeling you get from a minor skin cut or scrape that’s healing.

It might be a bit sore or tender, but it’s usually manageable with over-the-counter pain relief if needed.

This discomfort typically fades within a few days to a couple of weeks as the area heals. So, while there’s a bit of recovery time involved, it’s nothing compared to the worries you might have had before.

However, you’ll need to follow your doctor’s aftercare instructions to heal properly.

Does Everyone Feel Pain the Same Way?

Not everyone experiences pain in the same way. Just like some people can’t stand needles while others barely feel them, everyone’s pain tolerance is different.

Factors like your pain tolerance and overall health can affect how much discomfort you feel during and after circumcision.

Age can also play a role in how pain is perceived and managed.

Kids usually heal quicker and might feel less discomfort since their bodies are still growing and adapting. On the other hand, adults might experience a bit more soreness post-procedure, but it’s usually manageable with proper care.

So, whether you’re young or older, understanding that pain levels can vary helps set realistic expectations and allows for better preparation and recovery.

How Can I Calm My Child During the Procedure?

To help calm your child during the procedure, start by choosing a skilled and gentle healthcare professional who is experienced in working with children.

Before the procedure, explain simply what will happen and let them know it’ll be over quickly. Bring their favorite toy or book to keep them distracted.

Stay by their side, hold their hand, and talk to them in a soothing way. Your comfort and support can make a big difference and help them feel more at ease.

Busting the Myth: Circumcision Actually Comes With Benefits

Circumcision often gets a bad reputation, but it actually has several advantages.

Final Thoughts

So, here’s the deal: while circumcision might sound a bit scary, it’s really not as bad as it seems.

Think of it like a quick haircut. There’s a bit of discomfort, but it’s over fast. The results are worth it.

With anesthesia to numb the area and modern techniques to make things smooth, most people find the pain is just a minor bump in the road.

Recovery is quick, and you’re back to your usual self before you can say “band-aid.” So, don’t stress too much; the whole thing is usually easier than it sounds!