Private circumcision aftercare clinic in London, same-day men's health.

What is normal

• Swelling and bruising, sometimes marked, particularly at the front of the shaft. It gets worse before it gets better.
• A yellow or white film over the healing edge. This is normal healing tissue, not pus. Do not try to clean it off.
• Spots of blood on the dressing or underwear in the first day or two.
• Stitches that dissolve on their own over one to three weeks, sometimes with small knots working loose.
• Increased sensitivity of the glans for several weeks, which settles.
• Night-time erections, which are uncomfortable. This is unavoidable and does not cause harm.

Looking after it

• Pain relief — paracetamol and ibuprofen taken regularly for the first three to five days, at the doses on the packet. Take a dose before bed.
• Bathe daily from 48 hours in warm water, or shower. No soap, bubble bath or antiseptic on the wound; plain water is best.
• Pat dry gently, or use a hairdryer on a cool setting at a distance.
• Apply the ointment you have been given, if any, to stop the wound sticking to underwear.
• Wear supportive underwear rather than loose boxers — support reduces swelling and discomfort.
• Rest for the first 48 hours with the area elevated where you can.

For a child

• Give pain relief regularly for the first few days rather than waiting for distress.
• Petroleum jelly on the nappy or on the wound prevents sticking. Change nappies frequently.
• Bathe daily; do not pull anything back or attempt to clean the wound.
• Quiet activities for a week — no straddling toys, bikes or trampolines.
• A child who is inconsolable, feverish, or not passing urine should be seen the same day.

Returning to normal

Do not resume sexual activity until healing is complete and comfortable — usually four to six weeks in adults. Resuming early risks the wound reopening. Sensation typically settles over three to six months, and most men report no lasting change in sensitivity.