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Community Corner

Moms Talk: Banning Circumcision at Birth?

What topics get you heated around the coffee pot at the local mom's club? Read this week's hot topic and then tell us what you think!

Question: I read that some activists are putting a measure on a ballot that would ban circumcision at birth and fine those who choose to do it. Isn't this a personal decision? Can they be serious?

Answer: They can be quite serious. It all began in San Francisco, the same place where Happy Meals are now being banned for contributing to our nation's obesity problem (as though a pack of teeny chicken nuggets and a toy are the real reason our kids are getting plumper). Now they're threatening to slap a fine of $1,000 on those who do something that has been practiced since the Biblical times. They claim it is a human rights issue, that people are butchering their baby boys by allowing a doctor to perform this procedure. I had my three boys "go under the knife" and while I know it was a painful few minutes, I also know studies have shown for years that the health benefits far outweigh the momentary pain. But I also respect folks who choose not to do it. And that's just the point ... it's a personal choice, and should be kept that way. I believe there are bigger things to fret about.

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