Philosophy 
| Prenatal Teaching |
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Prenatal teaching on the intact body eases parents whose only image of the penis is of circumcision, to begin allowing the image of intactness into their visual thinking. Images of intact infants and adults may be made available from the first class onwards. Drawings and photos of infants are available in most recent childbirth literature. Sherwin Carlquist's art books present aesthetic, non-threatening images of intact adults . Written material to support teaching in each class is best provided in manageable amounts. Overload can leave parents feeling intimidated and confused. Bath Class Props: One male and one female 'anatomically correct' doll are useful for promoting the intact image and is also a non-threatening way to present the intact image. Parents enjoy practicing on dolls, it gives them confidence to know a bath routine before their baby arrives. We can mention that bathing their newborn son's genitalia is almost the same as bathing the doll's. Literature and devices on foreskin restoration will be on display including the CAT II - Q. Fathers-to-be who are circumcised and are considering circumcising their infants to 'match them'often have great difficulty changing their minds on this. One's penis image is a very powerful symbol. Even when the benefits of the foreskin are well understood intellectually, the image and perceptions of his sexuality, despite the losses of circumcision are extremely strong motivators. Many take a long time to imagine the anatomy, function and sensation of an organ they have never seen or sensorially and functionally experienced of their own bodies. And, due, happily, to the remaining magical functions of the circumcised penis it is difficult for them to realize anything beneficial could be added. Relinquishing a treasured image, re-constructing a 'facsimile' foreskin to match his soon-to-be-born infant sons penis requires a major revolution in male (and female) thinking. |
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| Last Updated ( Tuesday, 06 May 2008 ) |
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