Health Tip: Prevent Infection After Circumcision

By
Diana Kohnle
June 21, 2008, 7:04 AM ET
1 min read

June 21 -- (HealthDay News) -- Newborn boys who have just been circumcised need care to prevent infection and keep them comfortable.

The American Academy of Family Physicians offers these suggestions for preventive care after a circumcision:

  • Clean the area thoroughly and gently each time you change your baby's diaper.
  • If a bandage was used to protect the area, change the bandage during every diaper change.
  • If a Plastibell device was used, call your doctor if it doesn't fall off after 10 to 12 days.
  • Apply petroleum jelly to prevent irritation and infection.
  • A small amount of blood in the baby's diaper is normal, but contact your doctor without delay if the stain is larger than the size of a quarter.
  • Call your doctor if you spot any symptoms of infection, including fever, significant redness or swelling, or a yellow discharge.