The benefits of circumcising males are directly related to disease prevention. Many sexually transmitted diseases, including HIV, are more easily transferred between uncircumcised males and their partners. Urinary tract infections and cancer are also more likely to occur in uncircumcised men.
A reduced risk of acquiring HIV, syphilis and genital warts is one of the benefits of circumcising. The foreskin of the male penis is thought to be more susceptible to virus intrusion, increasing the likelihood that some diseases will be transferred from one partner to another. Viruses that cause cervical cancer and chlamydia are also more easily transferred to female sex partners of uncircumcised males.
Cervical cancer and chlamydia can both lead to fertility problems and pelvic inflammatory disease in women. This can cause both partners to become incapable of having children biologically. It can also cause pregnancy difficulties, including ectopic pregnancy, which occurs when the fertilized egg implants itself in the fallopian tube. This condition is extremely dangerous to the woman, and usually results in emergency surgery to terminate the pregnancy.
One of the additional benefits of circumcising is reduced rate of occurrence of prostate and penile cancer. Studies have shown that a higher amount of uncircumcised males acquire these diseases. It is important to note that the risk is significantly reduced for men who have received circumcision surgery.
Inflammation and infection in the genital area can also be a concern for those who do not undergo circumcision. One of the benefits of circumcising is a reduction in the amount of urinary tract infections, painful urination and inflammation. In some males the foreskin may become too tight, which inhibits the passing of urine. Over the long-term this can lead to the development of penile cancer.
The foreskin is also thought to be the cause of chronic inflammation in the male genital area, particularly in those who suffer from diabetes. Circumcised boys report fewer occurrences of inflammation over their life span. Males who suffer from diabetes may also run into other medical problems due to not being circumcised.
Additional benefits of circumcising include surgery prevention in adolescence or adulthood. Some men who do not get circumcised as babies end up having to have the procedure performed later in life. This is usually due to complications from infections or individual preference. Early surgery can prevent the development of problems and the pain associated with having to endure them. Furthermore, some females prefer to be with male partners who are already circumcised.