Circumcision (Bris)

The circumcision procedure

Circumcision is a commandment in Judaism that requires every Jewish male to be circumcised on the eighth day after birth.

The baby’s penis is naturally covered by the foreskin, the upper part of the elastic skin that extends from the scrotum to beyond the glans. During circumcision, the foreskin is cut with a knife, exposing the glans that was previously covered by the skin. Cutting and retracting the membrane between the glans and the foreskin is called periah and is traditionally performed using the thumbnail of the mohel.

After the circumcision

Mild swelling, redness, and a yellowish discharge may appear at the incision site.

It is important to make sure the baby urinates.

The area should be gently rinsed with lukewarm water at every diaper change, and an antibiotic ointment should be applied to soothe the baby and prevent the wound from sticking to the diaper.

Continue local care until the area calms and heals.

Unusual signs that require immediate medical attention

• Fever above 37.8°C (100°F).
• The baby does not urinate for six hours.
• Significant swelling develops in the area.