Actor and Brothers for Life ambassador Kagiso Modupe talks about the importance of circumcision.
By: Fundiswa Nkwanyana
1. At the age of 33, I decided to get circumcised. I grew up in the township and the importance of circumcision was never discussed. As a husband and father, I saw it as my responsibility to get circumcised after I found out that it reduces the risk of HIV and other sexually transmitted infections as well as cervical cancer.
2. I was circumcised at Katlehong clinic in Gauteng. I was nervous about the procedure because I feared the pain, and like most men, we don’t like people fiddling with our private parts. The counselling session helped to calm my fears; I was also pleasantly surprised that the procedure takes less than 20 minutes. The pain relief medication helped to minimise the pain and I was able to walk soon after. You have slight discomfort days after the procedure, but it’s not crippling pain.
3. I’m happy that my nationwide campaign to get other men medically circumcised was a success. Men from all walks of life joined in; we got a rare opportunity to talk openly about our fears and concerns. The response was positive – I’m glad that I played a part in encouraging others to make informed decisions about their sexual health. Since the launch of the campaign, the number of circumcision bookings has increased, and that makes me happy.
4. Now that I am circumcised, I encourage other men to do the same. It’s never too late to take care of your sexual health and get circumcised. I also want men to know that the pain is bearable. There is a great support system for men who want more information or are ready to get circumcised. They can make a booking by sending a Please Call Me to 082 808 6152 as there are many clinics across the country that offer the service.
