Landmark Foreskin Restoration Survey Published
Groundbreaking survey highlights the consequences of circumcision and the benefits of foreskin restoration.
A groundbreaking survey published in the International Journal of Impotence Research provides significant insights into the experiences of individuals who underwent childhood penile circumcision and later sought non-surgical methods to restore their foreskin. The study, titled "Foreskin Restorers: Insights into Motivations, Successes, Challenges, and Experiences with Medical and Mental Health Professionals," has been called a “landmark” survey by ethicist Brian Earp.
The comprehensive online survey, conducted in 2021, involved nearly 1,800 participants from 60 nations. The respondents consisted of men, transgender women, and intersex individuals who experienced non-therapeutic penile circumcision as children, as well as men who chose circumcision as adults.
The survey revealed a range of adverse consequences associated with circumcision, including physical, sexual, emotional, psychological, and self-esteem issues. Participants reported enduring pain, trauma, and the loss of the highly sensitive prepuce (foreskin), considered valuable erogenous tissue.
Foreskin restoration, a meticulous and time-intensive process, applies gentle, sustained tension to the penile shaft skin to stimulate tissue growth. While it cannot fully repair nerve damage, an impressive 87% of respondents expressed willingness to recommend restoration, citing increased pleasure, improved self-esteem, and enhanced intimacy.
The majority of participants came from the United States (72.5%), followed by Australia, Canada, and the United Kingdom. The survey also included a significant proportion of US Jewish and Muslim respondents.
Respondents faced challenges when seeking support from medical and mental health professionals, with many reporting trivialization or dismissal of concerns. This was attributed to practitioners' personal circumcision experiences or female professionals who chose circumcision for their children.
This groundbreaking survey highlights the physical and psychological consequences of circumcision, as well as the potential benefits of foreskin restoration. It underscores the need for increased understanding and empathy within the medical community to address the concerns of those affected by childhood circumcision.
The study aims to raise awareness and support for individuals seeking bodily integrity through foreskin restoration, shedding light on an often overlooked topic.