Circumcision should not be performed without some form of anesthesia. The most common method is called a dorsal penile nerve block, in which a local anesthetic is injected into the base of the penis. Baby is placed on a restraining board with hands and feet securely strapped. Using a medical instrument, the foreskin is mechanically separated from the head of the penis. The foreskin is placed in a metal clamp while it is being cut. The procedure is painful and baby will cry. Some parents prefer to not be present to this. However, I strongly encourage parents to be there and offer comfort. Anatomically, circumcision can remove as much as 80% of a male's penile skin (including veins, arteries and nerves). Surgical complication rate is one in 500. Occasionally, scar tissue may cause the penis to appear disfigured.

If a baby is going to be circumcised, I recommend the following remedies be used. All remedies can be prepared in a liquid form suitable for newborns There are many herbs and medications that should not be used at the time of surgery. There are no contraindications to using Homeopathic and Bach Flower remedies during surgery including circumcision:

Arnica montana (Arnica)

Arnica is the treatment of choice for all muscular skeletal injuries and trauma including surgery. Arnica can be easily administered three times a day for several days as needed.

Aconitum napellus (Aconite)

Aconite can be used for the feeling of shock following traumatic situations (including circumcision).

Ledum palustre (Ledum)

Ledum is good for puncture wounds. Use one dose before and after procedure.

Hypericum perforatum (Hypericum)

Hypericum is used for pain at the nerve endings. Use Hypericum if baby remains fussy following procedure.