Circumcision for 5 yo - what to expect?

[OrdinaryJo]

Hi

Haven't posted on here before but wonder if anyone can help me?

Just took my 5 yo DS to the docs as he'd had what looked like a UTI to me. Turns out his foreskin isn't retracting at all so he has referred him for a circumcision. Has anyone else been through a similar op?

What should I expect - and how best to prepare DS for this? I should mention he has a communication disorder so need to keep everything very simple for him.

Am in a bit of shock right now so any advice/experience will be welcome!

Hi
Not my dc but a friend's 4 year old had this done.
He was very proud of himself afterwards and asked everyone to look at his willy. GA, quick op, out next day (going back 10 years mind you so my be different)

My ds had a minor operation when he was 4 as well.

I told him he was going to hospital and the doctor would give him some medicine to make him sleepy. While he was asleep the doctor would make his tonsils better by going snip snip. I told him he wouldn't hurt while he was asleep when he woke up it would hurt for a while but that once it was over he could have [insert something you think will motivate]. He had no fear or problems. They will also give them magic cream so they don't feel the needle and they will distract him so he doesn't see it.

Yes DS2 had it done for the same reason.

He will be very sore for 2 weeks then right as rain. Loose pants such as shorts or tracksuit bottoms are a good idea. If he is at school keep him off for a week and let school know he has had the operation. If possible have it done during holiday time.

Do not tell DS anything much more than he needs a little operation to help him do a wee more easily.

Salty baths every night and for the first few days afterwards and Ibuprofen.

There have been several posts about this before. It is quite normal for a five year old boy's foreskin not to be able to retract.

I'd definitely get a second opinion. The only reason for circumcising a boy of this age is severe balantitis and that is a very rare condition.

My brother had this done when he was 4 because of balanitis. I know everyone is different but he didn't have to be circumcised they just did enough to release it.

My ds is 3.3 but looks like he's going to need it done too.

I'm with likes - get a second opinion. My DS1's foreskin doesn't retract and he is 4 1/2. It is very common in boys up to age 8/9 and once they start hitting puberty they will frequently sort it out themselves iykwim :) If it isn't causing him any pain or discomfort then I wouldn't put him through an op just yet. Google 'phimosis' if you want more information and reassurance.

Sorry - should probably clarify that - phimosis is the adult condition which sometimes requires treatment. If you google it there is also information about non-retractable foreskin in children and how it is normal/common etc. HTH