Can Circumcision Cause Erectile Dysfunction? What the Evidence Shows

Written and medically reviewed by Dr Zubair Wani, MBChB, MRCS (Eng), MRCGP, GMC 7042110. Updated November 2026.

What the research shows

This question has been studied in thousands of men, and the findings are consistent:

• A 2013 meta-analysis pooled 10 studies of more than 18,000 men, comparing 9,317 circumcised and 9,423 uncircumcised men. It found no difference in erectile function or premature ejaculation, and concluded that circumcision is unlikely to harm sexual function. The authors noted that the quality of some of the evidence was limited.
• A 2013 systematic review of 36 publications reached the same conclusion: circumcision does not adversely affect sexual function, sensitivity or satisfaction.
• Two large randomised controlled trials in Kenya and Uganda, the strongest type of study, followed thousands of men for up to 2 years after adult circumcision. Neither found an increase in sexual dysfunction compared with uncircumcised men.

Some smaller surveys report differences in either direction, but these are more prone to bias and have not been confirmed by the larger, better designed studies.

Why circumcision does not affect erections

An erection depends on blood filling the two chambers of erectile tissue inside the shaft (the corpora cavernosa), controlled by nerves and blood vessels deep within the penis. Circumcision removes only the skin and lining of the foreskin. Done properly, it leaves these structures untouched.

What can affect sex after circumcision

A small number of men notice changes while they heal. These are usually temporary:

• Healing: erections can be uncomfortable in the first week or two, which is normal and settles as the wound heals.
• Sensitivity: the head of the penis can feel more sensitive at first, as it is no longer covered. This usually settles over a few weeks.
• Anxiety: worry about the operation or about performing again can affect erections. This is psychological, not physical, and usually improves with time and reassurance.
• Returning to sex too early: this can reopen the wound and cause pain. Most men can resume sex after 4 to 6 weeks, and we check you are ready at your 4-week review.

Can circumcision make sex better?

For many men, it makes sex more comfortable. If you have a tight foreskin (phimosis), recurrent infections or a tight frenulum, erections and sex can be painful. Treating the cause often removes that pain. Circumcision does not treat erectile dysfunction itself, though.

If you already have erectile dysfunction

Erectile dysfunction is common, particularly with age. It is usually linked to blood flow, diabetes, blood pressure, cholesterol, smoking, some medications, or stress and anxiety. If you have erection problems, see your GP or a doctor before circumcision, such as through the men’s health service at Excel Clinic,, as they can be an early sign of other health conditions. They are also very treatable.

Talk it through with a doctor

At Circumcision Centre Wales, offered at Excel Clinic in Cardiff as part of its men’s health service, Dr Zubair Wani goes through the risks and benefits with you before anything goes ahead, including any concerns about sex. Read about adult circumcision at our Cardiff clinic, or our recovery guide.

References

1. Tian Y, Liu W, Wang JZ, et al. Effects of circumcision on male sexual functions: a systematic review and meta-analysis. Asian Journal of Andrology. 2013;15(5):662–666.
2. Morris BJ, Krieger JN. Does male circumcision affect sexual function, sensitivity, or satisfaction? A systematic review. Journal of Sexual Medicine. 2013;10(11):2644–2657.
3. Krieger JN, Mehta SD, Bailey RC, et al. Adult male circumcision: effects on sexual function and sexual satisfaction in Kisumu, Kenya. Journal of Sexual Medicine. 2008;5(11):2610–2622.
4. Kigozi G, Watya S, Polis CB, et al. The effect of male circumcision on sexual satisfaction and function: results from a randomized trial of male circumcision for HIV prevention, Rakai, Uganda. BJU International. 2008;101(1):65–70.
5. NHS. Circumcision in men.

Frequently asked questions

Can circumcision cause permanent erectile dysfunction?

There is no good evidence that it does. Large studies, including randomised trials, have found no increase in erectile dysfunction after adult circumcision.

Will circumcision affect my erections while I heal?

Erections can be uncomfortable for the first week or two while the wound heals. This is normal and settles as you recover.

When can I have sex after circumcision?

Usually after 4 to 6 weeks. We check you are ready at your 4-week review.

Does circumcision reduce sensitivity?

Reviews of the research have not found that circumcision reduces sexual satisfaction or function. The head of the penis can feel more sensitive at first, which usually settles.

Will circumcision cure erectile dysfunction?

No. It can make sex more comfortable if a tight foreskin or frenulum causes pain, but it does not treat erectile dysfunction. See a doctor about erection problems.