A Simple Guide to Your Newborn's Circumcision Care

Post-Circumcision Care Guidelines:

Circumcisions generally heal naturally, and the key to care is to maintain cleanliness and comfort until the tissue fully heals. Here are some essential guidelines to follow:

Initial Gauze and Petroleum Jelly:

• A gauze square with petroleum jelly is delicately applied to your baby's penis, ensuring protection and aiding the healing process.
• During the first diaper change, leave the gauze in place. Discard it during the second diaper change.
• If the gauze falls off prematurely, do not attempt to replace it.
• Clean the diaper area while leaving the penis untouched.
• If necessary, use a cotton ball and warm water to gently clean the circumcision site. Avoid alcohol and vigorous rubbing.

Petroleum Jelly Application:

• For the next five to six days, apply a small amount (about one teaspoon) of petroleum jelly around the entire circumference of the cut during each diaper change.
• Continue this routine until the area appears fully healed.

Discomfort and Pain Relief:

• Local anesthetic effects may last approximately one hour, contributing to a comfortable post-circumcision experience for your newborn.
• While many babies may not show distress, some might be uncomfortable, especially during diaper changes or when urine contacts the raw tissue.
• Feeding or nursing should not be affected.
• If your baby seems irritable, you can administer liquid infant Tylenol (1.25cc every six hours) for the first twenty-four hours.

Healing Process:

• Healing is typically rapid, with the cut edge sealing within minutes.
• Within twenty-four hours, the area behind the glans may swell, subsiding within a week or two.
• Off-white or yellowish patches may appear on the glans, indicating normal scabbing associated with healing.
• The glans may appear red and glossy initially, but it will take on a normal, healed appearance in about a month.