The reasons for circumcision, at least in a survey carried out as part of a study at Sydney Hospital, were: 3% for religious reasons, 1-2% for medical, with the remainder suggested by the researchers as "to be like dad" or a preference of one or both parents for whatever reason [154].

The main reason may in fact have more to do with hygiene and appearance, as will be discussed later in the section on socio-sexual aspects.