Am J Perinatol 2011; 28(2): 125-128
DOI: 10.1055/s-0030-1263294
© Thieme Medical Publishers

The Professional Imperative for Obstetrician-Gynecologists to Discontinue Newborn Male Circumcision

James F. Smith1
  • 1Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, New York Medical College and Westchester Medical Center, Valhalla, New York
Further Information

Publication History

Publication Date:
10 August 2010 (online)

ABSTRACT

Newborn male circumcision has been practiced for millennia for a variety of medical, social, religious, and cultural reasons. Indications for routine circumcision remain controversial, with proponents and dissidents arguing their sides vigorously. Popular in the United States, it has persisted in the scope of practice of obstetrics and gynecology, a field specializing in the opposite gender. To excel in women's reproductive health, we should no longer passively accept or actively maintain this procedure in our specialty. Steps are suggested to remove the residual and improper inclusion of circumcision from the scope of practice of obstetrics and gynecology.

REFERENCES

James F SmithJr. M.D. 

Chief of Perinatal Medicine, New York Medical College/Westchester Medical Center

19 Bradhurst Avenue, Suite 2700, Hawthorne, NY 10532

Email: James_smith@nymc.edu