After Care

Immediate Care (First 24-48 hours):

• Keep it clean: Gently clean the area with plain, warm water after each diaper change. Pat it dry – don't rub. Avoid soap, alcohol-based wipes, or hydrogen peroxide.

• Apply ointment: A thin layer of petroleum jelly (like Vaseline) is usually applied to the circumcision area at each diaper change. This helps prevent the penis from sticking to the diaper. Some mohels or doctors may recommend a topical antibiotic ointment instead.

• Loose diaper: Fasten the diaper loosely to minimize pressure on the area.

• Gauze (if used): If a gauze dressing was applied, follow the mohel's instructions on when and how to remove or replace it. Sometimes it falls off on its own. If it sticks, moisten it with warm water to loosen it.

• Monitor for bleeding: A small amount of blood on the diaper is normal in the first day. If you notice continuous bleeding or a large amount of blood (bigger than a quarter-sized stain), apply firm, direct pressure with a clean gauze for 5-10 minutes and call the mohel or pediatrician immediately.

Ongoing Care (Days to Weeks):

• Continue cleaning and ointment: Keep cleaning gently with warm water and applying petroleum jelly (or recommended ointment) at each diaper change for about 3-7 days, or as instructed.

• Observe for infection: Watch for signs of infection, such as increased redness, swelling that worsens, yellow or foul-smelling discharge, fever, or if the baby is excessively fussy or not feeding well. Contact the pediatrician or mohel if you suspect an infection.

• Yellowish film: A yellowish film or crust may appear on the head of the penis within a day or two. This is a normal part of the healing process and should not be scrubbed or removed.

• Swelling: Some swelling is normal and should subside gradually over a few days to a week.

• Bathing: Sponge baths are usually recommended until the umbilical cord falls off and the circumcision area shows signs of healing (usually a few days to a week). Follow your pediatrician's advice on when full baths are okay.

• Pain relief: If the baby seems uncomfortable, you can ask your pediatrician about giving a small, appropriate dose of infant acetaminophen (Tylenol).

• Plastibell: If a Plastibell (a plastic ring) was used, it should fall off on its own within 5-10 days. Do not try to remove it. If it hasn't fallen off after two weeks, contact your pediatrician.

When to Call the Doctor or Mohel:

• Persistent or heavy bleeding

• Signs of infection (increased redness, swelling, warmth, yellow discharge, fever)

• No urination for 6-8 hours after the procedure

• Extreme fussiness or lethargy

• The Plastibell ring hasn't fallen off after two weeks (if one was used)

• Any other concerns you may have

Always follow the specific aftercare instructions provided by your mohel and pediatrician, as there might be slight variations based on the procedure and your baby's individual needs.