Do Some Mohels Even Agree That Circumcision Is Wrong?

Posting Date: 07/21/1999

Marilyn Milos, founder of NOCIRC: In the last couple of years I've heard from one doctor after another who have put their scalpels down, realizing that circumcision isn't necessary.

Today I got a call from a doctor who is also a mohel. He told me that he'd put his scalpel down, that he can no longer, in good conscience, mutilate the genitals of babies.

text continues below

Check out Circumcision: A Closer Look

Five years ago, I was on a television show with him. He stood up and said that he circumcised for religious reasons but that he knew there was no medical reason for it.

It gives me hope to hear a mohel saying, "I can't do this anymore." He's going to write a book on the issue.

Dr. Dean: That has to be a first. Maybe business is bad or maybe he's retiring? Even mohels have to retire.

Marilyn: No, he is quitting consciously.

He said that the television show five years ago opened his eyes. I asked if his emotions got to him. He said, "No, I think too much."

Dr. Dean: Yeah, thinking will always get us in trouble.

Here at HealthCentral, you can learn more about the shame of circumcision and also see some pictures you won't find anywhere else.