What is Infected Circumcision

Infected circumcision is an infection in the area where a circumcision was done.

A circumcision is a surgical procedure to remove the foreskin of the penis.

What are the causes?

This condition is most commonly caused by bacteria. Some types of bacteria that normally live on the skin can cause an infection if they spread to the surgical area.

What increases the risk?

This condition is more likely to develop in men who do not keep their penis clean after surgery.

What are the signs or symptoms?

Symptoms of this condition include:

• Fever.
• Redness.
• Swelling.
• Pain.
• Crusting.
• Discharge.
• Painful urination.

How is this diagnosed?

This condition may be diagnosed with a physical exam and tests, such as:

• A culture and sensitivity test. In this test, a sample of discharge is taken from your penis and checked under a microscope. This test helps to identify the bacteria that are causing the infection. It also helps to determine what type of antibiotic medicine will work best against it.
• A blood test. This test checks for signs of infection.

How is this treated?

This condition may be treated with:

• Cleaning your penis regularly.
• Antibiotics. These may be given:
  • As an ointment.
  • By mouth.
  • Through an IV tube. Antibiotics may be given through an IV tube if the infection is serious and it spreads to the blood or damages the tissue of the penis.
• Surgery. This may be needed if the infection is severe.

Follow these instructions at home:

• Take over-the-counter and prescription medicines only as told by your health care provider.
• If you were prescribed an antibiotic, take it or apply it as told by your health care provider. Do not stop taking or applying the antibiotic even if you start to feel better.
• Wash your hands before you touch your penis.
• Gently clean your penis and the infected area as told by your health care provider.
• Do not use scented soap when you bathe.
• Wear loose-fitting clothing that will not rub against the infected area.
• Avoid sexual arousal and sex as told by your health care provider.
• Keep all follow-up visits as told by your health care provider. This is important.

Contact a health care provider if:

• You have difficulty urinating.
• You develop new symptoms.
• Your symptoms get worse.

Get help right away if:

• You cannot urinate.
• You have new bleeding that does not stop within a few minutes.