ELI5: Explain Like I'm 5

Circumcision and law

Circumcision is when a doctor or other healthcare professional removes the foreskin from a boy's penis. The foreskin is a piece of skin that covers the tip of the penis.

Sometimes parents choose to have this done for religious or cultural reasons, or because they believe it is healthier. However, in some countries, there are laws about when and how circumcision can be done.

These laws are in place to protect boys and ensure that the procedure is done safely and with their consent when they are old enough to make that decision for themselves.

In some places, parents must give informed consent before a circumcision can be performed on their son, meaning they must be fully informed about the risks and benefits of the procedure before they can make a decision about whether to proceed.

It is important to make sure that any circumcision is done safely and with respect for the boy's rights and dignity.