All males can be circumcised. However current programme in Botswana is focusing on males aged 13 years and above. HIV positive men should consult with their doctors before going for circumcision.

The inner part of the foreskin contains more cells that are more likely to be infected by HIV than the rest of the penis. These are the cells with a receptor that allows HIV to enter the body, like a lock with a key. When an uncircumcised man has sex, the receptor cells are exposed, thus putting him at risk of HIV infection if his female partner is positive. By removing the foreskin you reduce the number of these cells on the penis and lower the risk of a man acquiring HIV during sexual intercourse.

As long as male circumcision is carried out by a qualified doctor in a sterile health facility, the risks are extremely low.

It takes 6 weeks for the wound to completely heal.

There is no scientific evidence that SMC either increases or decreases sexual pleasure for either partner. Clients who may experience challenges in their sexual life after circumcision should seek assistance from the health facilities. Depending on the nature of the problem the client will be referred to appropriate specialist intervention.

The client goes through the following steps;

HIV counseling and testing

• The client can visit the nearest Voluntary Counseling and Testing centre in their area or the local clinic e.g. Tebelopele VCTC, Botswana Christian AIDS intervention Programme (BOCAIP) centers, Botswana Family Welfare Association (BOFWA) centers and other community based organizations

SMC counseling before the procedure

• Physical assessment to rule out any illness and contraindications

The procedure

• Post circumcision supportive counseling which will be done at each and every visit

• Area W Clinic
• Bontleng Clinic
• Block 8
• Nkoyaphiri clinic
• E & M Dada Clinic
• Mahalapye Hospital
• Maun Old Hospital
• Boseja II
• Scottish Livingstone Hospital
• Boswelakoko Clinic
• Palapye Primary Hospital
• Sekgoma Memorial Hospital
• Thamaga Primary Hospital
• Emmanuel Centre

Circumcision is a permanent surgical removal of the foreskin, so one can’t get back the foreskin once removed.

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