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עבריתOf course, recommendations for caring for a baby after a Brit Milah vary and can change. It is advisable to consult with a doctor or the mohel before the ceremony. Here are some basic guidelines accepted by many caregivers:
Wound Care
Bathing – There are different approaches. One recommends avoiding bathing during the first 24 hours after the Brit, and instead cleaning any discharge with baby wipes or cotton soaked in water. Another allows rinsing the area with lukewarm water during the first diaper change. In any case, after 24 hours, using running water, a bath, or baby soap is fine—just be careful not to rub the wound.
Disinfection and Moisturizing
Starting 24 hours after the Brit and for a week, wash the circumcision area with water and clean it with antiseptic soap. According to one approach, baby oil should be applied from the first diaper change to prevent the diaper from sticking to the wound (if it does stick, separate it using running water). Another approach recommends applying antiseptic and soothing ointments like Vita-Merfen or Polydine cream around the glans for about a week. (Be sure to use fresh and unopened oil and ointments!)
Bandaging
Some mohels bandage the circumcision site and return the next day to remove the bandage themselves. Others use a type of bandage that turns black and falls off on its own during the first diaper change or later that week.
Diapering
It is recommended to use a double diaper for a few days to create space between the baby’s legs. On the first day, diapers should be changed every three hours. When wiping the baby, do so downward and be careful not to contaminate the wound area. Also, if you’re cleaning the navel with alcohol, avoid letting it touch the circumcision wound to prevent stinging.
Pain
In most cases, babies do not need additional pain relief after the Brit Milah. In any case, do not give pain medication without consulting a doctor. However, if the baby is crying excessively, doctors may recommend pain relievers like acetaminophen syrup, infant pain relief drops, or suppositories. Be sure to consult the doctor regarding timing and dosage and follow the manufacturer’s instructions. If the baby is still uncomfortable or crying excessively, consult the mohel or doctor again.
Post-Circumcision Observations
For the first 30 minutes after the Brit, the mohel (according to guidelines from the Chief Rabbinate) must monitor the baby to ensure there is no prolonged bleeding and that the bandage (if used) is not causing pressure. When the mohel is experienced and certified, complications requiring medical attention are rare and usually simple to treat. Still, parents must stay attentive.
Discharge
As part of the healing process, a yellowish-white discharge (resembling a crust) may form on the penis. This is not pus, cannot be washed off, and will disappear naturally within about two weeks. If the baby has a bandage, make sure he can urinate. If the baby hasn’t urinated within 3–4 hours, contact the mohel.
Bleeding
During the first week after the Brit, it’s normal to see small blood spots on the diaper, and this is not cause for concern. However, if there is significant bleeding, fever above 38°C (100.4°F), unusual paleness, drowsiness, or restlessness, take the baby to the emergency room immediately.
Appearance of the Penis
There may be some swelling below the glans; this should resolve on its own over time. The glans may turn a purplish or bluish-red color. This is also not concerning, and the color will gradually change to a pinkish tone during the baby’s first year.