Does child circumcision decrease sensitivity or future sexual pleasure?
As a GP specializing in child circumcision and paediatric procedures, I frequently receive questions from parents about the long-term effects of circumcision on sensitivity and sexual pleasure. If you are searching for “infant circumcision near me,” “child circumcision clinic,” or “benefits and risks of circumcision for boys,” this article is designed to provide clear, evidence-based answers.
What Is Child Circumcision?
Child circumcision is a minor surgical procedure that removes the foreskin covering the head (glans) of the penis. Evidence says it is best performed in the first 12 months of life, (as recovery is more seamless), but can be done at any stage of life. Many parents seek infant circumcision for cultural, religious, or medical reasons, and want to understand the potential impact on their child’s future health and well-being.
Does Circumcision Affect Sensitivity?
Research on sensitivity after circumcision is mixed:
Some studies suggest that men circumcised as adults report slightly reduced penile sensitivity and changes in orgasm intensity. However, these findings may not directly apply to boys circumcised as infants, as the developing nervous system adapts over time.
Other research, including studies on men circumcised as infants, shows no significant difference in penile sensitivity or sexual satisfaction compared to those who are not circumcised. The foreskin is sensitive to light touch, but sexual pleasure involves multiple types of sensation and psychological factors.
Does Circumcision Affect Sexual Pleasure in Adulthood?
For parents searching “does circumcision affect sexual pleasure later in life?” or “circumcision long-term outcomes,” the evidence suggests:
No universal answer: Some men report decreased sensitivity, while others notice no change or even improvement, especially if circumcision resolves medical issues like phimosis or recurrent infections.
Most men are satisfied: Studies show that the majority of men circumcised as infants or children report normal sexual function and satisfaction as adults.
Key Points for Parents Considering Child Circumcision
Child circumcision is a safe and common procedure when performed by an experienced doctor in a dedicated clinic.
Long-term effects on sensitivity and sexual function are generally minimal, especially for boys circumcised as infants.
Individual experiences vary: Factors such as age at circumcision, reason for the procedure, and individual anatomy can influence outcomes.
If you are looking for a child circumcision clinic or want to discuss the benefits and risks of circumcision for boys, please contact our clinic for personalized advice. We are committed to providing the highest standard of care and up-to-date information for families considering circumcision.
References
Morris BJ, Krieger JN. Does male circumcision affect sexual function, sensitivity, or satisfaction? International Society for Sexual Medicine, 2013. Found at: Does male circumcision affect sexual function, sensitivity, or satisfaction?--a systematic review - PubMed
Fink KS, Carson CC, DeVellis RF. Adult Circumcision Outcomes Study: Effect on Erectile Function, Penile Sensitivity, Sexual Activity and Satisfaction. Journal of Urology, 2002. Found at: Adult circumcision outcomes study: effect on erectile function, penile sensitivity, sexual activity and satisfaction - PubMed
Bossio JA, Pukall CF, Steele SS. Circumcision does not reduce penile sensitivity, research finds. Queen’s University Gazette, 2016. Found at: Circumcision does not reduce penile sensitivity, research finds | Queen's Gazette
Bossio JA, Pukall CF, Steele SS. Examining Penile Sensitivity in Neonatally Circumcised and Intact Men Using Quantitative Sensory Testing. Journal of Urology, 2016. Found at: Examining Penile Sensitivity in Neonatally Circumcised and Intact Men Using Quantitative Sensory Testing | Journal of Urology
Tian Y, Liu W, Wang JZ, et al. Effects of circumcision on male sexual functions: a systematic review and meta-analysis. Asian Journal of Andrology, 2013. Found at: Effects of circumcision on male sexual functions: a systematic review and meta-analysis - PubMed
If you are searching for “child circumcision near me,” “infant circumcision clinic,” or “circumcision for boys,” I am here to help. Contact my rooms today to learn more about our safe, evidence-based approach to paediatric circumcision.