Circumcision is a commonly performed surgical procedure that involves the removal of the foreskin of the penis.
It is often performed for cultural or religious reasons, but there are also potential medical benefits associated with circumcision.
However, the rates of circumcision vary widely across different regions and communities, and there is ongoing debate about the risks and benefits of the procedure.
In this article, we will examine the circumcision rates among major hospitals in Nairobi and explore the factors that influence these rates.
By understanding the trends and patterns in circumcision practices, we can gain a better understanding of the social and cultural factors that shape our attitudes towards this controversial procedure.
1. Nairobi Hospital
In December 2022, the Karen Hospital put up a post on its official Twitter page indicating prices for male circumcision.
The hospital located in one of Nairobi’s suburbs said it charges Ksh 40,000 for the cut under local anesthesia (LA) and Ksh 50,000 when using General anesthesia (GA).
The fee, according to the hospital, does not include bed charges for an overnight stay or a consultation with the doctor before and after the surgery.
The service is treated as an outpatient process.
Contacts
Tel: 020 2845000
Email: andersonclinic@nbihosp.org
Getrude’s Children’s Hospital
You will be charged Ksh 33,000 for the cut at Gertrude’s Children’s Hospital, located in Nairobi’s affluent Muthaiga estate.
The procedure is for children aged 13 years and above.
Parents and guardians in civil service can also pay with NHIF insurance but depending on their job grades.
Should you wish to take your child to Gertrude’s, no deposit is required and payments will be done at the hospital.
Contacts
Tel: 0709 529017/020 7206000
Email: info@gerties.org
Avenue Hospital
Avenue Hospital in Parklands, Nairobi said they charge Ksh 45,000 for the cut under General anesthesia and Ksh 35,000 for Local anesthesia.
The hospital however said that it allows patients to use the National Hospital Insurance Fund (NHIF), but only for civil servants from job groups L to T.
Parents wishing to take their kids to Avenue Hospital will not be required to submit a deposit, and can only find out the specifics of the procedure upon visiting the institution.
Contacts
Tel: 0711 060000
Email: info@avenuehealthcare.com
MP Shah Hospital
The cost of the cut is highest at MP Shah Hospital.
It will cost up to Ksh 70,000 for the procedure using Local anesthesia and Ksh 80,000 using General anesthesia.
The hospital accepts insurance but only for civil servants from Job Group L and above.
Contacts
Tel: 0111 000600/0111 159000
Email: info@mpshahhospital.org
St Mary’s Mission Hospital
The hospital revealed it charges Ksh 15,000 for the cut, using general anesthesia.
However, the hospital does not take insurance, and the procedure could last up to three hours.
Contacts
Tel: 020 7851300/0717305204/0777305204/0718663442/0777663441
Email: info@stmmh.co.ke
Nairobi Women’s Hospital
The cut under Local anesthesia at the Nairobi Women’s Hospital will cost you Ksh 8,000, and Ksh 15,000 under General anesthesia.
No deposit is required for the procedure and patients also get medication and at least one outpatient visit.
Contacts
Tel: 0709 667000
Email: info@nwch.co.ke
Free circumcision clinics in Nairobi
Fortunately, there are organizations and clinics that provide free circumcision services for those who cannot afford it.
These free circumcision clinics not only make the procedure more accessible but also help to reduce the spread of sexually transmitted infections and lower the risk of certain diseases.
These free clinics include;
- Huruma Clinic – 0716 263 724.
- Kariobangi Clinic – 0716 263 732.
- Babadogo Clinic – 0733 742 125.
- Komarock Clinic – 0716 253 482.
- Donholm Clinic – 0716 252 824.
- Fikiria Jamii Clinic, Donholm – 0722 699 211/ 0716 263 769.
- Soweto Clinic – 0716 263 250.
- Mathare Clinic – 0716 263 732.
- Njiru Clinic – 0716 263 325.
- Ruai Clinic – 0716 263 468.
- Shauri Moyo Clinic – 0716 263 736.
- Dandora St Alice Clinic – 0716 263 765.
- Eastleigh St Veronica Clinic – 0716 263 738.
- Eastleigh St Vincent Clinic – 0716 213 758.
- Babadogo Health Centre – 020 802 0120.
- Kibera South Health Centre – 0776 013 510.
- Loco Health Centre (Railways) – 0706 520 100.
Benefits of getting circumcised
The benefits of getting circumcised include;
- Reduced risk of certain sexually transmitted infections (STIs): Studies have shown that circumcision can reduce the risk of acquiring some STIs, including HIV, herpes, and human papillomavirus (HPV).
- Lower risk of urinary tract infections (UTIs): Circumcision may also lower the risk of UTIs in infants and young boys.
- Easier genital hygiene: Without a foreskin, there is less space for bacteria and other microorganisms to accumulate and cause infections. This can make genital hygiene easier.
- Decreased risk of penile cancer: Although penile cancer is rare, circumcision may reduce the risk of developing this type of cancer.
- Cultural or religious reasons: Some families choose to have their sons circumcised for cultural or religious reasons.