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Physical Effects of Circumcision

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Genital Autonomy:

Abstract

Male circumcision results in permanent changes in the appearance and functions of the penis. These include artificial exposure of the glans, resulting in its keratinization and altered appearance. Additionally, circumcision results in loss of 30–50% of the penile skin, loss of at least 10,000–20,000 specialized erotogenic nerve endings, loss of reciprocal stimulation of foreskin and glans, and loss of the natural coital gliding mechanism, etc. From the point of view of sensation and function, the most important effect is caused by the tissue loss itself. The most sensitive part of the penis is removed, and the normal mechanisms of intercourse and erogenous stimulation are disturbed.

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Author information

Authors and Affiliations

  1. Royal College of Physicians, London, UK

    John Warren

  2. NORM-UK, Staffordshire, UK

    John Warren

Authors
  1. John Warren
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Correspondence to John Warren .

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Editors and Affiliations

  1. Robbins Road 45, Norland, 98358, USA

    George C. Denniston

  2. University of Berkeley, Post Office Box 5815, Berkeley, 94705-0815, USA

    Frederick M. Hodges

  3. San Anselmo, USA

    Marilyn Fayre Milos

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Warren, J. (2010). Physical Effects of Circumcision. In: Denniston, G., Hodges, F., Milos, M. (eds) Genital Autonomy:. Springer, Dordrecht. https://doi.org/10.1007/978-90-481-9446-9_7

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