Aftercare
Our job isn’t done once the Brit is over. Your Mohel will stay in close contact with you after the Brit to provide any assistance you need for a swift recovery. Here's a step-by-step guide to assure your child will get the sensitive care he needs after his Brit:
What You'll Need
Two 1-oz. tubes of antibiotic ointment (I.e. Neosporin, Bacitracin, etc.)
50 3x3 sterile gauze pads
Hand-sanitizer
First 24 Hours
As the baby went through a medical procedure, it's normal for the baby to have irregularities with his feeding, sleeping, and bowel-movement. There's nothing to worry about if he sleeps more of less then usual. Likewise with feeding and bowel-movement, which might be more or less frequent then expected. But, no worries, within a day or two he'll be back to his regular routine.
Since the Brit area might be sensitive at the beginning, we would advise using a double diaper for the first 24 hours. Also, try to avoid the use of a car seat for the first day after the Brit. When necessary, place extra padding in the car seat to protect the area of the Brit.
Following the Brit, diapers will likely be red-tinged. Don't worry. It's totally normal to see small red stains or pinkish diapers for the first day or two. However, in the rare case of substantial bleeding, call your Mohel immediately.
Caring For Your Baby
To avoid the baby from scratching the affected area or pulling of the dressing off prematurely, never leave the baby unattended with his diaper open. Always be sure to have all the equipment needed for the diaper change with you, before opening the diaper.
To avoid infection, always use hand-sanitizer or wash your hands with soap before pampering the baby.
While the bandage is still on, change his diaper just as you would before the Brit. Be carful to be sensitive when nearing the affected area. Since the head of the penis is now revealed, the skin might still be sensitive. Before closing the diaper, apply a generous amount of antibiotic ointment on the area of the diaper that will touch the head. This will help avoid the head from getting scratched or sticking to the diaper.
The dressing should stay on for around 48 hours. Nevertheless, it's totally fine if it falls off earlier. After 48 hours, be in touch with your Mohel. He will either come take it off himself or give you clear, step-by-step guidance how to take it off yourself, while avoiding unnecessary pain for your child. Do not try taking it off without prior instructions from your Mohel!
Once the bandage is off, apply a gauze pad with ointment directly on the wound. Follow this step at every diaper change for 4-5 days.
24/6 Assistance
A caring Mohel will stay in close contact with you after the Brit to provide any assistance you need for a healthy recovery. Always feel free to contact your Mohel with any questions or concerns. They are there for you!