Circumcision Benefits and Risks

During the first 15 months of life: Out of 100 baby boys who are circumcised, 0 will get a urinary tract infection, compared to 2 out of 100 who are not circumcised. 0 out of 100 baby boys who are circumcised will have tightening of the foreskin, compared to 3 to 4 out of 100 who are not circumcised. Up to 30 out of 100 baby boys who are circumcised will have bleeding from the procedure, compared to 0 out of 100 baby boys who are not circumcised.

The information shown here is based on the best available evidence about UTIs, phimosis, and heavy bleeding.

Current as of: November 15, 2023

Author: Healthwise Staff
Clinical Review Board
All Healthwise education is reviewed by a team that includes physicians, nurses, advanced practitioners, registered dieticians, and other healthcare professionals.

The Health Encyclopedia contains general health information. Not all treatments or services described are covered benefits for Kaiser Permanente members or offered as services by Kaiser Permanente. For a list of covered benefits, please refer to your Evidence of Coverage or Summary Plan Description. For recommended treatments, please consult with your health care provider.