Fasting Before Adult Circumcision (Local, Regional or General)

Fasting for this procedure

Circumcision can be done under local anaesthetic (a numbing injection only), regional, or with sedation or a general anaesthetic — and the type changes whether you fast. If it is under local anaesthetic only, you may be allowed to eat and drink normally, but always confirm this with your team first. If you are having sedation, a general anaesthetic, or a regional block, follow standard adult fasting: stop solid food about 8 hours before, a light meal up to 6 hours before, and clear fluids up to 2 hours before your hospital arrival time.

Medicines to check

Blood thinners (aspirin, clopidogrel, warfarin, Eliquis, Xarelto) — these raise bleeding and bruising risk. See medications to stop.

Aspirin & anti-inflammatory painkillers (ibuprofen, naproxen, other NSAIDs) — these can increase bruising and bleeding, so they are often paused unless your team says otherwise.

Diabetes medicines & insulin — they need a plan if you are fasting. See diabetes tablets.

Blood pressure medicines — confirm which to take with a small sip of water on the morning of surgery.

Herbal supplements (fish oil, vitamin E, ginkgo, garlic tablets) — these can thin the blood, so ask whether to pause them.

When this surgery may be delayed

Fever, a new cough or cold, or a chest infection

Vomiting or diarrhoea in the day or two before

An active skin infection, sore, or rash on or near the surgical area

Not following the fasting instructions if you are having sedation, a general anaesthetic, or a regional block

Still taking a blood thinner that was meant to be stopped beforehand

Reports & documents to carry

Photo ID and your insurance or hospital paperwork

A list of all your medicines, including doses, and any allergies

Any recent test results or letters your surgeon asked you to bring

Loose, comfortable clothing and supportive, snug underwear or briefs to wear home

A ride home and an adult to stay with you if you are having sedation or a general anaesthetic

What to ask your anesthesia team

Will I have local, regional, or sedation/general anaesthetic — and do I need to fast?

Which of my regular medicines should I stop, and which do I take on the morning?

When can I eat and drink again afterwards?

Will I go home the same day, and do I need someone to drive me?

What pain relief is safe, and how do I keep the area clean and supported as it heals?

Your prep checklist

Tick things off as you sort them — saved on this device only, nothing is sent anywhere.

A general guide — your hospital's own instructions always come first.

Frequently asked questions

Will I be awake during the circumcision?

It depends on the anaesthetic you and your team choose. Many adult circumcisions are done under local anaesthetic, where the area is numbed and you stay awake but feel no pain. Others are done with sedation or a general anaesthetic so you are relaxed or asleep. Your team will explain which option suits you and what to expect.

Do I need to stop taking painkillers before surgery?

Aspirin and anti-inflammatory painkillers like ibuprofen and naproxen can increase bruising and bleeding, so they are often paused before this kind of surgery. Acetaminophen (paracetamol) is usually fine, but check first. Always follow your surgical team's exact instructions on which medicines to stop and when.

What should I wear home afterwards?

Bring loose, comfortable clothing and supportive, snug underwear or briefs. Gentle support helps reduce swelling and keeps the dressing in place as you heal. Your team will give you specific advice on dressings, washing, and activity in the days after.

Can I drive myself home?

If you have only a local anaesthetic, you may be able to drive yourself, but confirm this with your team. If you have sedation or a general anaesthetic, you must not drive, so arrange a ride home and ideally have an adult stay with you for the first 24 hours.