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Newborn Circumcision — Parent Information

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About Circumcision

Circumcision is a surgical procedure where the foreskin (the skin covering the tip of the penis) is removed.
It can be performed at any age, but when done in newborns it is usually simple, quick, and safe.

Dr. André Theron performs circumcisions in a sterile, baby-friendly environment, with full support for parents before, during, and after the procedure.

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Where Can Circumcision Be Done?

Newborn circumcisions can be arranged at the following hospitals:

  • Life Fourways Hospital (Rooms C28b)

  • Netcare Park Lane Hospital (maternity ward)

Depending on your baby’s age and circumstances, the procedure may be performed either:

  • While still admitted in the maternity ward (usually day 2–3 of life), or

  • As an outpatient in Dr. Theron’s rooms at Life Fourways Hospital (within the first 14 days of life).

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Which Babies Can Have Circumcision?

Circumcision is only considered if:

  • The penis and foreskin are completely normal.

  • Baby has received the Vitamin K injection.

  • Baby is not jaundiced.

  • There is no family history of bleeding disorders.

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🚫 Circumcision may be delayed or avoided if there are conditions such as:

  • Penoscrotal webbing

  • Buried penis

  • Hypospadias (a variant where the urine opening is not at the tip)

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Safety and Possible Complications

Circumcision is generally safe, but as with all procedures, there are small risks:

  • Bleeding (usually minor and dealt with immediately)

  • Infection (rare, treated with antibiotics)

  • Preputial adhesions (scar tissue formation)

  • Meatal stenosis (narrowing of urine passage, uncommon)

  • Injury to the glans or urethra (very rare)

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During the Procedure

  • Circumcision is performed under local anaesthetic.

  • Babies usually tolerate the procedure very well.

  • Feeding your baby during the procedure helps comfort them.

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Caring for Your Baby After Circumcision

  • No bathing for the first 3 days (clean gently with wet wipes if needed).

  • Apply antibiotic ointment to the wound at each nappy change.

  • Use Vaseline or bum cream on the front of the nappy to prevent sticking.

  • A yellow crust over the tip is normal — it will clear once bathing resumes.

  • The penis will look red and swollen for 4–5 days and usually heals completely within 2 weeks.

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Pain Relief

Most babies are settled with feeding and comfort.
If needed, a small dose of infant Panado or Calpol may be given (your doctor will advise).

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Parent Checklist Before Circumcision ✅

  • Baby is less than 14 days old (unless advised otherwise).

  • Both parents to provide consent.

  • Bring a bottle of expressed breast milk or formula.

  • Ensure baby has received a Vitamin K injection.

  • Inform the surgeon of any family history of bleeding problems.

  • Confirm the procedure location (Life Fourways Hospital or Netcare Park Lane Hospital).

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Contact Us

If you have any questions or concerns, please get in touch:

📞 Tel: (011) 875 1740
📱 WhatsApp: 068 162 6154
✉️ Email: dr.theron.practice@gmail.com

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