It used to be an accepted social practice, a rite of passage for virtually all newborn boys.
But these days circumcision is more likely to cause passionate and bitter argument.
To its opponents, circumcision is mutilation, an outdated and barbaric operation. Its proponents argue the exact opposite, that it is safe, healthy and potentially lifesaving.
As Ellen Fanning reports, there is virtually no middle ground, especially among doctors.
To read the trasncript of our live Q & A with Dr Terry Russel and John Aldous, from the National Organisation of Restoring Men, click here.Fact sheet on circumcision for parents, which looks at the practise, the myths and the medical reasons for circumcision. Provided by WA Parenting in PDF format. You will need Acrobat Reader to open this document which you can download here.
Frequently Asked Questions about Infant CircumcisionReporter - Ellen Fanning. Producer - Cliff Neville.
