By Ronnie Dubrowin CNM, MS, IBCLC

Circumcision is a deeply personal decision for families deciding whether to have the procedure performed by a trained mohel or mohelet (mohelet) in the comfort of their own home, rather than in a hospital.

  • Circumcision at home is typically delayed for one week after birth, providing your newborn with time to settle into life outside the womb, establish feeding patterns, and give new moms time to recuperate prior to having to care for the baby’s circumcision.
  • Home circumcisions are typically performed more quickly. Having loved ones present to comfort the baby throughout the procedure creates an intimate, personalized, and meaningful experience, after which your baby is immediately returned to your arms for soothing and feeding.
  • Mohelets are dedicated professionals with extensive training and experience in conducting home circumcisions and provide ongoing family support and guidance to ensure a smooth recovery process.
  • While hospitals often require a vitamin K injection as a precautionary measure for infants, mohelets have flexibility in offering alternatives to families who want to minimize discomfort for their newborn.
  • Complications are rare, with bleeding and possible revision being the most common, which are safely handled by mohelets, who evaluate newborns and consult with parents prior to the procedure to ensure the infant’s safety.

Ultimately, the decision between home and hospital circumcision depends on the preferences and values of each family. While hospital procedures offer certain advantages, home circumcision provides comfort, personalization, and dedicated care that resonates with many parents. Consulting with a qualified professional to make an informed choice that best suits your family’s needs is important.

Ronnie Dubrowin CNM, MS, IBCLC is a certified mohelet with more than 25 years of experience. Contact her at 518-281-3238 or at ronmidwife@gmail.com.