What is the relationship between TB/HIV Care Association and the Department of Health in terms of medical male circumcision?
Medical male circumcision (MMC) is part of a national campaign driven by the Department of Health in all provinces and launched by the National Minister of Health, Dr Aaron Motsoaledi. Naturally, all provinces are included in this national campaign so as to ensure that the benefits of HIV prevention can also be felt throughout the country. In order to help meet the ambitious targets of the national campaign, that of circumcising a million males by 2015 and 4 million by 2016, the Department of Health has formed agreements with nongovernmental organisations to help provide the service. TB/HIV Care Association has a memorandum of understanding with the Department of Health to provide MMC services in the Western Cape’s Metro, West Coast District and Central Karoo District; the OR Tambo, Alfred Nzo, Buffalo City Municipality and Nelson Mandela Bay Municipality in the Eastern Cape; and Harry Gwala District in KwaZulu-Natal.
Is medical male circumcision safe?
Any surgical procedure carries risks, and medical male circumcision is a minor surgical procedure. However, because the procedure is conducted with sterile equipment by qualified personnel and follow up care is provided, the risk of any adverse event is extremely low. If you experience excessive bleeding or pain or are concerned in any way, you should contact your service provider, a clinic or doctor immediately.
Is medical male circumcision painful?
The procedure is done under a local anesthetic so you will not feel it. After the procedure, when the anesthetic wears off, you may experience some pain, but the nurse or doctor who performs the procedure will provide you with painkillers to help you deal with this.
How is medical male circumcision different to other kinds of circumcision?
MMC is different to other kinds of circumcision in three main ways.
Firstly, because of the way in which MMC is performed, you can be sure that you will receive the benefits of a reduced risk of HIV. The way other kinds of circumcisions are performed varies quite a lot, which means that you MAY be left with part of your foreskin and in that case, would not receive the benefits in terms of HIV and STI risk reduction.
Secondly, medical male circumcisions are always performed with sterile equipment by qualified medical personnel.
Thirdly, in general MMC does not have the cultural traditions attached to it, which some other kinds of circumcisions do. Some kinds of circumcision are linked with tradition or religion and have great social significance to those who undergo them. We respect this and people’s right to choose how they wish to honour their tradition.
What are the benefits of medical male circumcision? Why should I have this done?
• An MMC reduces the risk of an HIV negative male contracting HIV by 60%
• reduced risk of cervical cancer for female partner
• reduced risk of sexually-transmitted infections
• makes the penis easier to clean
Who can have medical male circumcision?
The age of males targeted by this national campaign is 15-49, however, under the Children’s Act 2005 no 38, section 12(8), males under 18 can be circumcised with the consent of a parent, guardian or caregiver and children under 16 can be circumcised for a medical reason (such as HIV prevention) with the consent of a parent, guardian or caregiver.
How much does it cost?
The procedure is free. All procedures are done in a safe, clinical environment.
How long does it take?
The actual procedure takes 30 minutes or less.
Will a medical male circumcision protect my partner from HIV?
No, if you become infected with HIV, you will pass it on to your partner unless you use a condom.
Do I still need to use a condom if I’ve had a medical male circumcision?
Yes! Whether you have had an MMC or not, you need to wear a condom when you have sex. The MMC will reduce your risk of contracting HIV, but it will not eliminate it. You are still at risk if you do not wear a condom.
