CARING FOR THE CIRCUMCISION AT HOME

 

 

MEDICATION:

 

We suggest you use acetaminophen (Tylenol/Tempra) regularly for the first 24 hours.  He may need some on the second day as well.  Every baby is different.  By the third day, the Tylenol can be stopped.

 

BLEEDING:

 

It is normal to see a small amount of  blood  in the diaper and it is normal to see a small clot on the tip of the penis.  It is not normal to see fresh blood dripping from the penis.  If this happens, put some vaseline in the diaper and hold your baby firmly against you for 15 minutes.  If the bleeding restarts after the pressure is released, you are advised to seek medical attention immediately. 

 

INFECTION:

 

The length of the penis will be bruised and swollen.  There may be a blister at the bottom of the penis from the injection.  This is all normal.  The top of the penis will be red and raw.  There will be white, sticky, wet scab, and yellow discharge.  After 24 hours, things will slowly start to improve.  If there is worsening, with more redness, swelling, or pain, you are advised to seek medical attention.  If your baby has a fever, is overly sleepy, isn’t feeding, or has much less wet diapers, you should take him directly to the hospital.  Infections are very rare.

 

BATHING AND DIAPER CHANGES :   

 

Vaseline: You will use vaseline at each diaper change for the first week.  The first three days, put the vaseline directly in the diaper and on to the testicles.  On the fourth day, you can just start coating the tip of the penis instead. 

 

Washing: For the first eight hours after the procedure, keep your baby in the diaper as much as possible, and do quick diaper changes to prevent bleeding (no water squeezed over tip). Once the eight hours have passed, at each diaper change you can squeeze some water from a washcloth over the tip of the penis.  Wipe everywhere else with a washcloth or a baby wipe.  Point the penis down and apply the diaper firmly (not loose and baggy). If stool (poop) gets on the tip of the penis, wipe it off gently with a cloth or a wipe. On the fourth day, you can stop the water washes (you can bathe and wipe normally).

 

Air drying: There is no need to air dry.  Air drying slows healing.  

 

Bathing: Avoid bathing for the first 3 days. 

 

AFTER THE FIRST WEEK:

 

We usually book a follow up visit (virtual or in person) in one week to check on the healing.  You will be given a phone number to reach Dr. Zwiers directly if there are any concerns.  We welcome you to call the clinic at any time in the future if you have concerns or questions.  The receptionist will book you a follow up appointment with Dr. Zwiers (phone or in person).  Please do not contact Dr Zwiers via cell phone/secure messaging for non urgent problems after the first week.