Q: Is is best to perform the circumcision on the 8^th day?

A: There are certain "clotting factors" which become ideal on the 8th day. The procedure could be done sooner or as late as 7 months later if needed.

Q: Why are many parents choosing a Mohel over a doctor to perform a circumcision?

A: When choosing a doctor, it is often preferrable to choose a specialist. A Mohel is not only specially trained in the medical and surgical techniques of circumcision, but also in the emotional and spiritual needs of the baby and family. The Mohel is also a Rabbi who is spiritually in touch with the miracle of birth and bonding between the parent and child. It is important to choose a Mohel that will be accommodating to the needs of your family. Pediatricians, obstetricians and urologists will often adopt some of the comforting techniques of a good mohel to give their patients the same emotional and spiritual results.

Q: It is painful for the baby?

A: Many studies have been performed, to try to ascertain how much pain the baby feels. In the end, it is difficult to say exactly how much pain the baby does experience. By using a holistic approach, I've learned how to use comforting touches and by creating a warm environment to minimize the crying during the circumcision. Just as adults with emotional support will have better health outcomes than patients who are scared and afriad, I believe my holistic approach will minimize the pain and encourage the fastest possible recovery. Most babies will stop crying just moments after the circumcision.

Q: How does a Holistic Mohel compare with a skilled doctor?

Part of my ongoing training is to observe circumcisions performed in hospital and standard medical settings. In my opinion, the differences couldn't be clearer. A doctor will restrain the baby using molded plastics and a surgical table for up to twenty minutes and sometime even longer. I will place the baby on a soft, comfortable pillow and restraining and straping is not required using the holistic approach. The instrument I use to perform the circumcision allows me to be more efficient and give better results compared to the instrument a doctor often uses. Perhaps the most important difference is that my procedure will never take more than 45 seconds so whatever discomfort is experienced the duration is minimized. There are topical creams, ointments and penile blocks that are available to reduce the pain as well. Most babies will stop crying shortly after the procedure is over.

Q: Should I be anxious about the circumcision?

A: As parents trying to make good decisions for your baby, it is perfectly natural to be anxious or fearful of something that might be new or unknown to you. Once you become knowledgeable with my experience, procedures and holistic approach you should feel confident in your decision to honor me with the circumcision of your son. Sometimes, that anxiety can come from experiences of childbirth teachers, friends and family describing the hospital technique to circumcisions which can be much more painful and last 20 to 30 minutes. With my specialized holistic approach and technique, the circumcision will take less than one minute with minimal discomfort.