HIV/AIDS Glossary

Surgical removal of the foreskin of the penis. Male circumcision is performed for potential health benefits and for cultural or religious reasons. Possible health benefits of male circumcision include a lower risk of urinary tract infections, penile cancer, and sexually transmitted infections. Circumcised men are less likely than uncircumcised men to acquire HIV from female partners, but circumcision is less effective than other HIV prevention options.