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Caring for the circumcision site

The circumcision decision is a major one for many parents—it’s also purely personal. “The medical evidence on the pro and consides essentially balances out,” Greene says. If you opted to remove the foreskin, the most critical aspect of post-op care is to apply a protective lubricant (such as A+D Ointment) each time you change a diaper. This will promote healing and prevent anything from adhering to the area as it heals.

As with the umbilical cord, a small amount of bleeding is normal and is not a reason to panic. Also be aware that your infant may not feel like eating much in the day or two following the procedure. You can expect full healing within seven to 10 days. Make sure he never goes more than eight hours without producing a wet diaper, and call your pediatrician if he develops a fever, swelling or you notice a foul odor.

NEXT: Dealing with diapering

Dealing with diapering

Many new parents apply a protective moisture barrier with each diaper change, believing it can’t hurt and might help. “There’s a new interest in the safety of the things we’re putting on a baby’s skin,” says Greene. (Skin is, after all, the body’s largest organ.) Fortunately, many companies that manufacture baby (and adult) skin products are now formulating them without the potentially dangerous preservatives and parabens often used in the past. Greene recommends that parents check safecosmetics.org or cosmetics database.com for lists of safe suppliers. The best defense against a diaper rash is a good offense: Change diapers often so the ammonia in baby’s urine won’t have time to irritate her skin. If irritation develops despite your efforts, a rich zinc paste will soothe it and speed healing.

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