Brit Mila questions
Clear answers, without overwhelm.
Every baby and every family is different. These answers are a practical starting point; Rabbi Hamaoui welcomes your questions by phone or text.
Frequently asked questions
What parents often want to know.
For scheduling or a question specific to your baby, call or text Rabbi Hamaoui directly at 773-621-0051.
The baby’s physician or midwife should confirm that circumcision is medically appropriate. This page gives general information and does not replace advice from the clinician caring for your baby.
When should we contact Rabbi Hamaoui?
Call or text as soon as possible after the birth. Advance contact during pregnancy is also welcome, and Rabbi Hamaoui may be contacted at any time.
What information will we discuss?
The date and time of birth, how many weeks the pregnancy lasted, birth and current weight, bilirubin readings, medical clearance, desired date and time, location, contact information, and any family minhagim or special circumstances.
What is a minhag?
A minhag is a family or community custom. Sephardic, Ashkenazic, and other family minhagim are respected. Tell Rabbi Hamaoui about the customs important to your family so they can be discussed while planning the ceremony.
Where can the Brit Mila take place?
At a home, synagogue, event venue, hospital where permitted by the facility, or another suitable location. Rabbi Hamaoui serves Chicago, Skokie, Lincolnwood, Evanston, Wilmette, Highland Park, Northbrook, Buffalo Grove, nearby communities, and families throughout the greater Midwest. He is also willing to travel.
How long does healing take?
Many newborn circumcisions heal over approximately 7–10 days, but every baby is different. Parents receive personalized aftercare instructions and follow-up. Contact Rabbi Hamaoui and the baby’s clinician with any concern.
Is the procedure fast? Is it painful?
The circumcision itself is brief, while careful preparation, the ceremony, and a clear review of aftercare take additional time. Newborns can feel pain, so pain management is an essential part of planning. Parents should discuss pain-control questions with the baby’s clinician and tell Rabbi Hamaoui about any guidance they receive.
Should we apply numbing cream or give medicine?
Do not apply numbing cream or give acetaminophen or any other medicine unless the clinician caring for your baby has approved the exact product, dose, timing, and application site. Tell Rabbi Hamaoui about anything given or applied.
What if our baby is premature or jaundiced?
Tell Rabbi Hamaoui promptly about prematurity, jaundice, bilirubin testing, phototherapy, feeding or weight concerns, or ongoing medical monitoring. The Brit Mila may need to be delayed until the baby is medically cleared and the halachic timing is reviewed.
What if we do not belong to a synagogue?
You are still welcome to call. Rabbi Hamaoui serves Jewish families of every background and level of observance and can explain the practical steps for planning a meaningful Brit Mila.
Do you serve non-Jewish families?
Circumcision for non-Jewish families may also be available. Please call to discuss the baby’s age, health, location, and your family’s needs.
What is the fee?
Please call or text Rabbi Hamaoui for current pricing. Any applicable travel expense will be discussed before scheduling.
Local service information
Planning a Brit Mila in Chicagoland?
Learn more about local service in Chicago and Skokie, including ceremony settings, preparation, and nearby communities.
A personal conversation