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Circumcision is a topic that is the subject of heated debate. In some cultures and religions, it is a tradition that goes back thousands of years. Critics say it is an unnecessary medical procedure and see it as mutilation. Perhaps you are wondering whether circ could be right for you? Then it is helpful to take a look at the advantages and disadvantages circumcision can have for you personally, your health and your sexual activity.
What exactly is a circumcision?
In medicine, a circumcision, also known as a “circ”, is the partial or complete removal of the foreskin of the penis. There are different variants (“high and tight”, “super-high and tight”, “low and tight” and “loose”). There can be various reasons for a circumcision.
Firstly, religious and cultural traditions may be the cause: for example, circumcision is an important ritual in Jewish and Islamic communities. Very often, however, there are medical reasons for a circumcision. It is considered an adequate method for remedying phimosis (foreskin constriction) or recurrent infections, for example. Some also give hygiene reasons as a reason for wanting to be circumcised. They argue that a circumcised penis is easier to keep clean and that circumcision reduces the risk of certain infections. Last but not least, there may of course be very personal reasons or preferences that tip the scales in favor of circumcision.
Pros and cons of circ?
If you are considering circumcision, you should weigh up the pros and cons beforehand. The best way to do this is to know all the arguments for and against the procedure.
The advantages of circ
One advantage is improved hygiene, because without a foreskin, less smegma (a mixture of sebum and dead skin cells) accumulates. This not only makes it easier for you to clean your intimate area, but also reduces the risk of unpleasant odors.
In addition, there is a lower risk of infection. Studies and analyzes show that circumcised men have a lower risk of sexually transmitted diseases (STDs), including HIV. In particular, the risk of inflammation of the so-called urinary tract and sexually transmitted diseases is reduced. The risk of HIV infection during sex is reduced by about 60 percent, according to an analysis by the WHO. This is thought to be due to the removal of the foreskin, which is particularly prone to injury and can no longer serve as a gateway for viruses after circumcision.
Another advantage is the reduced risk of urinary tract infections. Especially in infants and toddlers, circumcision can significantly reduce the risk of such urinary tract infections. Although these infections tend to occur rather rarely overall, they can have serious consequences.
Circumcision can prevent chronic inflammation, which reduces the risk of penile cancer. According to a study from 2011, there is evidence that childhood circumcision is associated with a lower risk of penile cancer. The systematic review and meta-analysis conducted as part of the study found that men circumcised in childhood or adulthood had a significantly lower risk of invasive penile cancer.
Note: The so-called S2k guideline on circumcision (published by professional associations such as the German Society of Urology -DGU) contains recommendations for the medically appropriate use of circumcision, taking into account both possible benefits and risks. The guideline recommends circumcision for the purpose of prevention, but not as a blanket measure in childhood.
Furthermore, there also appear to be sexual advantages for some men. For example, circumcised men report greater stamina during sex because the glans is less sensitive. This can be particularly advantageous for you if you tend to ejaculate prematurely, i.e. reach orgasm quickly.
Possible disadvantages of circ
A possible disadvantage of circumcision is a loss of sensitivity. The foreskin contains numerous nerve endings. Removing them can cause the penis to become less sensitive over time. Some men report that they had less pleasure during sex after circ.
As with any procedure, there are also possible complications with circumcision.
Although circumcision is considered a safe routine procedure, complications can still arise. For example, infections can occur. In addition, heavy post-operative bleeding is possible. Occasionally, scarring can occur. In rare cases, permanent damage or pain can also occur.
If you are considering circumcision, be aware of the irreversibility of the procedure. Once circumcised, there is no going back for your foreskin. While some men are happy with their circumcision, there are also many who wish they had been able to make that decision themselves.
An important aspect of the topic of circumcision is ethical concerns.
For example, critics complain that circumcision in infancy is an infringement of physical integrity because the decision is taken out of the child’s hands.
Does circumcision affect the sex life of gay men?
For you as a gay man, the question of circ can play a special role. After all, the foreskin has an important function in certain sexual practices in terms of sensations.
Sensations during sex vary
The foreskin is an erogenous zone on your body. Therefore, its removal can change the way you feel during sex. Some men perceive the reduction in sensitivity as negative, while others welcome a lower sensitivity because it gives them greater control over their own climax.
Circ and its influence on oral sex
For many men, the foreskin makes a significant difference, especially during oral sex. It allows for an additional sliding motion and can intensify sensation. When removed, sensation may be drier or less intense. Some men and their partners find this a disadvantage, while others do not miss the foreskin because they prefer direct contact with the glans anyway.
Influence of the foreskin during fisting and other practices
The presence or absence of the foreskin also plays a major role in various forms of anal intercourse. Some men report that an intact foreskin makes penetration more pleasant because it is easy to moisten and is flexible for movements. Without a foreskin, the feeling can be drier or less slippery because the skin of the glans cannot be “moved”. The resulting friction during penetration is even perceived as painful by many men. A good lubricant can be helpful here.
Communicated partner preferences
In the LGBTQIA+ community, there are different preferences. While some men find a foreskin erotic, others are totally into circumcised cocks. In some countries, such as the USA, circs are widespread. In Europe, on the other hand, more men are uncircumcised. These cultural differences are also reflected in the dating world. In gay chat rooms, for example, you can simply read about the preferences of the profile owners themselves when it comes to the foreskin. The terms “cut” or “uncut” are usually unambiguous.
Circumcision ultimately remains a matter of taste
Of course, circumcision may be necessary for health, cultural or religious reasons. However, it is often personal preferences or sexual sensations that can tip the scales. If there is no urgent medical need for circumcision, you can and must ultimately decide for yourself whether advantages such as better hygiene and a reduced risk of infection convince you. If they don’t, and you perceive the loss of sensitivity as an unacceptable disadvantage, then simply keep your foreskin. It is your personal choice, which should be carefully considered in any case. If you are unsure whether circumcision is right for you, just talk to a doctor or urologist. What matters is that you feel comfortable with your body, whether with or without the foreskin.
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