Adult circumcision: What to expect, why men choose it, and how it can change sexual experience

I received a call this week from a man who had recently undergone a circumcision. Luckily, I could answer some of his questions, but it raised the point that there is little or no information given to men about what to expect after the procedure. So, if you’ve ever wanted to know – here it is. 

Circumcision is one of the oldest and most widely practiced surgical procedures in the world. While it is most commonly performed in infancy, an increasing number of men are choosing to undergo circumcision in adulthood, whether for medical, cultural, religious, or personal reasons.

What is adult circumcision?

Adult circumcision is the surgical removal of the foreskin, the fold of skin covering the head (glans) of the penis. The procedure is typically done under local or general anaesthetic and usually takes between 30 minutes and an hour. Most men go home the same day. 

Unlike infant circumcision, recovery in adults takes longer, with healing typically taking two to three weeks. A return to sexual activity is usually recommended after about six weeks.

Why would an adult choose circumcision?

Medical reasons

The most common driver is health. Conditions include:

• Phimosis (tight foreskin that cannot retract) 
• Balanitis (inflammation or infection of the foreskin and glans) 
• Pain during sex or recurrent infections 

Clinical data shows phimosis alone accounts for nearly half of adult circumcision cases. 

Circumcision can also reduce the risk of certain infections, including HIV transmission in heterosexual men, which is why it has been promoted in some public health programmes. 

Cultural and traditional practices

Circumcision is deeply rooted in many societies:

• In parts of sub-Saharan Africa, including South Africa, it is often part of initiation rites marking the transition from boyhood into manhood. 
• Among the Xhosa, for example, circumcision is a symbolic and social milestone tied to identity, masculinity, and community belonging. 

In these contexts, it is typically performed during adolescence or early adulthood as part of a structured initiation process.

Religious reasons

Circumcision is central in:

• Islam – commonly performed in childhood, though timing varies by region 
• Judaism – performed on the eighth day after birth as part of a religious ceremony 

Some men who were not circumcised earlier in life may choose to undergo the procedure later for religious identity or conversion. 

Personal, aesthetic, or hygiene preferences

Some men choose circumcision for:

• Ease of hygiene 
• Personal or partner preference 
• Cosmetic reasons 

The glans remains permanently exposed after the procedure, which some men report as feeling “cleaner” or more comfortable. 

What are the results?

Physical changes

After circumcision:

• The head of the penis is permanently exposed 
• The skin becomes less sensitive over time due to reduced protection 
• Hygiene may be easier, as there is no foreskin to retract and clean 

Risks and complications

Although generally safe, risks include:

• Bleeding 
• Infection 
• Scarring or healing complications 

Overall complication rates are relatively low when performed by trained professionals. 

Sex after circumcision: what changes?

This is one of the most common questions and often the most misunderstood.

Sensitivity and pleasure

Research shows no major difference in overall sexual satisfaction between circumcised and uncircumcised men, though individual experiences vary. 

Some men report:

• Reduced sensitivity at the glans 
• Longer time to orgasm 
• Greater endurance 

Others report no noticeable change or even improved comfort if previous medical issues caused pain.

The role of lubrication

One important adjustment is the increased role of lubrication.

The foreskin naturally provides a gliding mechanism during sex. Without it:

• Friction may increase 
• Lubrication (water-based or silicone-based) often enhances comfort and pleasure, and you should know by now that my favourite is Pjur.
• Partners may also notice a difference in sensation although I have to add that it is very difficult to feel the difference. 

For many couples, this becomes an opportunity to explore new forms of intimacy and touch.

Finding new paths to pleasure

Circumcision can shift, not diminish sexual experience.

Men and their partners often explore:

• Different types of stimulation (pressure vs glide) 
• Slower, more intentional touch 
• Use of lubricants, oils, or pleasure products 
• Greater focus on full-body intimacy rather than genital sensation alone 

For some, especially those who had painful conditions beforehand, sex becomes significantly more enjoyable post-procedure.

Globally, about 40% of men are circumcised, with rates varying dramatically by region and culture. 

Final thoughts

Adult circumcision is a deeply personal decision shaped by health, culture, identity, and sexuality. While it does involve a period of adjustment, both physically and sexually, many men report positive outcomes, particularly when the procedure addresses an existing problem.

The key is informed choice: understanding not just the procedure, but how it may influence one’s body, relationships, and experience of pleasure.

Sharon Gordon is the brains behind the Lola Montez Brand leads the adult entertainment Industry and has revolutionised the way business is done.