Does Circumcision Really Cause Reduced Penile Sensitivity?

The benefits and drawbacks of circumcision have been debated for decades. On the one hand, supporters of circumcision point to issues of appearance and hygiene. Furthermore, recent research has indicated that males who are circumcised are at a lower risk for HIV infection. On the other hand, critics of the procedure argue that there are no proven medical benefits to circumcision, and the side effects of the surgery can last for a lifetime. This article looks at both sides of the debate, explaining the possible effects of circumcision on reduced penile sensitivity and exploring the penis-specific vitamins and minerals which may help to support enjoyable levels of penis sensation. Benefits of circumcision – true or false? For years, circumcision at birth was routine, and parents did not question the need for the procedure. Aside from the religious and cultural aspects of removing the foreskin, most people believed that circumcision was necessary as a matter of hygiene, as well as a cosmetic preference. While it is true that men who are uncircumcised are at greater risk for an infection known as balanitis, this problem can be easily avoided simply by cleaning under the foreskin regularly. Although there is some evidence that circumcision can reduce the risk of infection with the AIDS virus, there are many other factors involved here, and the negative effects of circumcision, particularly reduced sensitivity, should be considered before opting for removal of the foreskin. Side effects of circumcision Whether a male is circumcised in infancy or as an adult, there are a number of possible side effects to be aware of. Most of these, including bleeding, infection, scabbing and soreness, are minor and temporary and can be resolved with conventional medical treatment. However, according to an extensive study conducted at a leading medical school in the San Francisco Bay area and reported in the October, 2006 issue of the British Journal of Urology (Sorrells, Snyder, Reiss, Eden, Milos, Wilcox, & Van Howe, 2006), penile sensitivity in the glans was significantly reduced in men who had been circumcised compared to uncircumcised men. As the authors of the study explain, “Five locations on the uncircumcised penis that are routinely removed at circumcision were more sensitive than the most sensitive location on the circumcised penis” (p. 867). This study, which was reviewed by independent urological experts, contradicted the common belief that circumcision did not have a noticeable effect on penile sensitivity. Reduced sensation in this area is caused by two factors. First, surgical removal of the foreskin may damage the nerve tissue around the crown and glans of the penis. Second, the exposed skin is subject to constant friction, which leads to toughening of the outer dermal tissue, similar to the calluses that develop on the hands and feet. Can penis sensation be increased in circumcised men? Since penis sensation is an important part of arousal, the ability to ejaculate, and the overall experience of sexual pleasure, many men are concerned about loss of sensitivity. The good news is that even circumcised men can enjoy a healthy and fulfilling sex life and may even be able to increase sensitivity through the use of a penis vitamin formula. The penile skin is highly absorbent and receptive to nutrients that are applied to the area. A number of specific vitamins, minerals, antioxidants and amino acids have been identified as providing skin and nerve tissue support. For instance, vitamin C stimulates healthy circulation, which keeps the skin oxygenated and responsive to touch. Amino acids such as acetyl-L-carnitine protect and repair the fine network of nerve tissue that underlies the penis skin and plays a big role in penis sensation, while natural moisturizers such as vitamin E and shea butter keep the exposed skin of the glans soft, supple and responsive to touch. A penis health formula (most health professionals recommend Man1 Man Oil) containing a combination of these vitamins, antioxidants, and moisturizing may help to improve the condition of the skin of the glans and increase penis sensation in both circumcised and uncircumcised men.