Do I need to take time off work after my circumcision?
A frequent question that men often ask is whether they need to take time off work or school when recovering from a circumcision as an adult.
Whilst circumcision is a minor form of surgery, it is still important to give your body time to heal.
The simple answer is that it depends on your work and physical activity, as well as the reasons for your circumcision. Some men are able to return to work within a day or two whilst others will take longer to return to the office or the workplace. Circumcision technique, any pre-existing health conditions and the nature of your work all contribute how quickly you can return.
The recovery period after circumcision may involve some discomfort, swelling, and sensitivity in the penis. However, there are lots of things you can do to make sure you penis heals as quickly as possible.
It is important not to put too much pressure or strain on your circumcision in the first few weeks of surgery. That means that someone with a desk job will be able to return to work sooner than someone whose job involves physical labour and other strenuous activities.
Equally, you will need to avoid sports and exercise. If you go to school, you may be able to return within a few days as long as you take a few weeks off sports or gym classes.
One of the quickest ways to ensure a speedy recovery is by preventing infection. You can do this by keeping the area clean as well as applying topical antibiotic cream to the incision site.
Men with phimosis
Men who were circumcised due to phimosis may also find it more challenging to return to work compared to those who were able to previously retract their foreskin.
This is because a phimotic foreskin prevents complete exposure of the penis glans, which can lead to increased sensitivity in the first few weeks after circumcision. You may find it painful just when your penis head rubs against fabric, for example, which can make it hard to walk or head into work.
If this is the case, it is important to try your best and desensitise your penis to daily exposure. The sooner you do this the sooner you can progress with daily life.
So…how much time should I take off work or school?
At a minimum it is best to take a couple days off work or school so that you feel comfortable immediately after your circumcision.
After that, it’s entirely up to you and how you feel. Whilst it is common to take a week off, you may feel you need more – or less – than this.
Of course, you will also be able to return to work sooner if you take good care of your penis and follow aftercare instructions correctly.