Opinions and knowledge level of pediatricians on circumcision

Aim: This study aimed to assess the knowledge level and opinions of pediatricians about circumcision and the preputium and discuss them in light of the existing literature.Material and Methods: This descriptive field study, employing a mixed design, was conducted among pediatricians (n = 292).The questionnaire form was prepared by the researchers based on the existing literature.The questionnaire forms were distributed via WhatsApp, Messenger, and SMS.Analysis of variance was used to examine knowledge levels in groups of three stages and above.A chi-square test was used to compare proportionate data, and a p-value of <0.05 was considered statistically significant.Results: Among the study participants, 92.2% stated that they recommended circumcision in cases of phimosis, while 88.9% did so for recurrent urinary tract infections.Additionally, 98.3% acknowledged hypospadias awareness, 64.4% stated that they considered circumcision a part of their cultural/religious identity, and 28.1% expressed the belief that circumcision should be avoided in patients with bleeding disorders unless medically warranted.It was observed that 33.2% of the participants endorsed circumcision between the ages of 6-10 years, 74.4% recommended it be performed by pediatric surgeons, and 96.6% suggested its execution in a hospital setting.The average knowledge level of the participants was found to be 47.95 19.84 points out of 100.Discussion: The results revealed that pediatricians who participated in our study believed that there should be no legislation limiting circumcision and that circumcision should preferably be performed by pediatric surgeons in a hospital setting, in the presence of an anesthesiologist, and with the option of sedation or local anesthesia.Furthermore, the participants' knowledge level indicates a potential need for training on circumcision and the preputium.