Studies on cognitive development have shown that experiencing such intense pain at such a young age can cause changes in brain chemistry which can result in increased anxiety, attention problems, and hyperactivity. (Nope, anesthesia is rarely used.) According to some studies, anger, shame and even PTSD can be long-term consequences of circumcision.
On one hand, decreasing the chance of getting cancer, HIV, and other STDs even by a little can be reason enough for some parents to choose to cut. For others, even the small risk of post-surgical complications and psychological damage is too high. Cultural trends, traditions, and customs may be the determining factor for many families, as the risks and benefits can appear evenly weighted.
