Circumcision and Sexual Health: How It Impacts Sensitivity and Protection
Male circumcision is often discussed for its health benefits, especially its role in reducing the risk of sexually transmitted infections (STIs), including HIV. However, one common concern among men considering circumcision is whether the procedure affects sexual sensitivity and performance. In this post, we explore the connection between circumcision, sensitivity, and protection, shedding light on the myths and facts surrounding this topic.
Circumcision and Sexual Sensitivity – How is Sensitivity Impacted?
One of the primary misconceptions is that circumcision drastically reduces sensitivity and negatively impacts sexual pleasure. While circumcision does remove the foreskin, which contains nerve endings, studies show that the overall impact on sensitivity and sexual function is minimal. In fact, many men report no significant change in sensitivity after healing.
- Studies on Sensitivity: Research shows that circumcision has little to no long-term effect on sexual satisfaction. While there may be a slight decrease in sensitivity in the area previously covered by the foreskin, it doesn’t lead to a reduction in overall sexual pleasure or performance.
- Psychological Factors: Sexual satisfaction is influenced by multiple factors beyond just physical sensitivity, such as emotional connection and mental well-being. For most men, circumcision doesn’t diminish their sexual experience.
Protection Against STIs and HIV
One of the most well-documented benefits of male circumcision is its ability to reduce the risk of STIs, including HIV. Circumcision plays a critical role in public health strategies in high-prevalence areas.
- Reduced Risk of HIV: Male circumcision reduces the risk of heterosexual men contracting HIV by up to 60%. This significant protection occurs because the removal of the foreskin eliminates cells that are highly susceptible to HIV infection.
- Protection Against Other STIs: Circumcision has been shown to reduce the risk of several other sexually transmitted infections, including human papillomavirus (HPV) and herpes simplex virus (HSV-2). By lowering the risk of contracting HPV, circumcision indirectly helps reduce the risk of cervical cancer in female partners.
Balancing Sensitivity and Protection
While concerns about sensitivity are common, it’s important to understand that circumcision balances both sexual health and protective benefits. Men who undergo circumcision can maintain healthy and satisfying sexual lives while significantly lowering their risk of STIs, including HIV.
Conclusion
For men considering circumcision, it’s crucial to weigh the benefits beyond just sensitivity. The procedure not only provides significant protection against HIV and other STIs but also supports overall sexual health. If you have questions or want to learn more about the impact of circumcision, contact Bopelo Health Center at info@bopelohealth.com, call or WhatsApp us at 083 542 7524 or 062 028 1890, or visit our Sandton clinic at 112 Virginia Avenue, Parkmore, Sandton, 2196.
References:
Here are some reliable sources that discuss the impact of circumcision on sexual sensitivity and satisfaction:
- Surgical Practice and Sensitivity:
- A 2008 study published in the Journal of Sexual Medicine found no significant difference in sexual satisfaction or function between circumcised and uncircumcised men. The study evaluated sexual desire, satisfaction, and performance over time, concluding that circumcision had minimal effect on these factors.
- Reference: Krieger JN, et al. (2008). “Male circumcision and sexual function, sensitivity, and satisfaction: a systematic review.” Journal of Sexual Medicine. Link
- Impact on Sensitivity:
- A 2011 review published in BJU International examined various studies comparing sensitivity in circumcised and uncircumcised men. It found that while the foreskin contains nerve endings, the removal of it does not substantially reduce overall sexual satisfaction or function.
- Reference: Morris BJ, et al. (2011). “Does male circumcision affect sexual function, sensitivity, or satisfaction?—A systematic review.” BJU International. Link
- Large-Scale African Study:
- A 2007 randomized trial in Kenya involving over 2,000 men compared sexual function in circumcised and uncircumcised men. The results showed no adverse effects on sexual function post-circumcision, supporting the idea that circumcision does not impair sensitivity.
- Reference: Bailey RC, et al. (2007). “The protective effect of male circumcision is sustained for at least 42 months: results from the Kisumu, Kenya trial.” PLOS Medicine. Link
- PubMed Article on Circumcision Sensitivity Study Does male circumcision affect sexual function, sensitivity, or satisfaction?–a systematic review