What Effect Does Male Circumcision Have On Cervical Cancer?
There is evidence to suggest that male circumcision may have an indirect effect on reducing the risk of cervical cancer in female partners, but it’s essential to understand the context and limitations of this association.
The human papillomavirus (HPV) is a common sexually transmitted infection that is strongly associated with the development of cervical cancer. Male circumcision has been shown to reduce the risk of HPV infection and transmission to female partners. Studies have found that circumcised men are less likely to be infected with HPV and are less likely to transmit the virus to their female partners compared to uncircumcised men.
However, it’s important to note that male circumcision is just one of several factors that influence the risk of cervical cancer. Other important factors include HPV vaccination, regular cervical cancer screening (e.g., Pap tests), practicing safe sex, and avoiding tobacco use.
Why Does Circumcision Reduce the Risk of HPV Infection?
Circumcision reduces the risk of HPV (human papillomavirus) infection primarily due to its impact on the anatomy of the penis and the mucosal surface of the genital area. Here are some reasons why circumcision may lower the risk of HPV infection
- Decreased surface area:
Circumcision involves the removal of the foreskin, which reduces the surface area of the penis where HPV can potentially infect cells.
- Microenvironmental changes:
The microenvironment of the penis changes after circumcision.
- Reduced viral reservoir:
Circumcision may reduce the likelihood of HPV establishing a reservoir of infection in the genital area.
- Decreased inflammation:
The presence of the foreskin can contribute to chronic inflammation and microabrasions on the genital mucosa, which may increase susceptibility to HPV infection.
- Changes in immune response:
Circumcision may also affect the local immune response in the genital area, leading to enhanced immune surveillance and clearance of HPV-infected cells.
Will Getting Circumcised Protect Your Female Partner from Cervical Cancer?
While circumcision can lower the risk of HPV (human papillomavirus) infection in men and subsequently reduce the risk of transmitting HPV to female partners, it’s important to understand that circumcision alone is not a guarantee against cervical cancer in female partners. Here’s why:
- Reduction in HPV transmission:
Circumcision has been associated with a lower risk of HPV infection in men, which can lead to a reduced risk of HPV transmission to female partners.
- Other risk factors:
While circumcision can contribute to reducing the risk of HPV transmission, other factors also influence the risk of cervical cancer in women.
- High-risk HPV strains:
Circumcision may be more effective at reducing the transmission of some HPV strains than others.
- Individual variability:
The effectiveness of circumcision in reducing HPV transmission and cervical cancer risk may vary depending on individual factors such as sexual behaviors, partner’s HPV status, and other risk factors.
The decision to get or not get circumcised is a personal one that you should make after consulting with a healthcare professional. The Chennai Circumcision Clinic has many circumcision surgeons who can perform high-quality circumcisions for you that can give health benefits to your female partner. Speak to us if you want more information.
