Abstract

After early ending of controlled randomized studies in three African countries, where it has been shown that male circumcision diminishes the risk of their HIV infection even by 60%, campaigns recommending such procedures were undertaken in many countries. However circumcision does not provide to males absolute protection against HIV and it is necessary to apply other strategies diminishing the risk of infection, like delaying sexual initiation, reducing the number of sexual partners and consistent and proper use of condoms. It has not been unequivocally clarified so far how male circumcision affects the risk of infection of their female sexual partner. There are very few studies concerning the influence of hygiene of sexual organs on the risk of acquiring sexual transmitted diseases, including HIV. It would be advisable to explore those issues before recommending male circumcision, particularly in those countries where HIV infected women outnumber HIV-infected men.