Medical training in circumcision

Dr. Gould was initially trained in the practice of circumcision during medical school. He subsequently completed the Circumcision Learning Experience Using Simulation (CIRCLES) course through the Department of Urology at SickKids Hospital, a formal simulation-based course in neonatal circumcision. He then completed a one-on-one formal apprenticeship at the Greenberg Circumcision Centre with Dr. Mark Greenberg, who has practiced as a Mohel and run a circumcision clinic for over 30 years. Jonah was subsequently recognized by the College of Physicians and Surgeons of Ontario to safely and expertly provide neonatal circumcision.

Ordination as a Mohel

In 2026, Jonah completed the Rabbinical Assembly's Brit Kodesh course in Atlanta, GA, designed to provide comprehensive instruction on the ritual and halachic aspects of circumcision. He was subsequently ordained as a recognized and certified Mohel by the Rabbinical Assembly before a Beit Din.

Roots in the Toronto Jewish community

Jonah grew up entrenched in the Jewish Community of Toronto. He attended both Hebrew Day School and CHAT, has attended Beth Tzedec Congregation his entire life, and is involved with many Jewish charities. Since he was first trained in circumcision, it has been his goal to combine his medical expertise with his connection to his community to be able to be involved in one of the most sacred moments in families' lives.

Circumcision is a procedure where the foreskin is removed from the head of the penis. It is one of the oldest medical procedures performed worldwide, and is customary in many cultures and religions. In Judaism, it is performed to signify a covenant (the translation of the word Brit/Bris), to signify our connection to God. However, like many traditions in Judaism, it is likely rooted in health benefits. Studies show that circumcision decreases the risk of developing penile cancer, sexually transmitted diseases, and urinary tract infections.

Of course, like any medical procedure, the procedure does come with risks. These risks include minor bleeding and infection. When performed correctly by a trained professional, the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) states that the benefits outweigh the risks. Below, I will outline the steps I take to ensure a safe and painless procedure.

If you would like to read the AAP's policy statement on circumcision, it is linked here.

The Instrument

To perform the procedure, I use a Mogen Clamp. The mogen clamp is preferred by many Mohallim worldwide due to its mix of providing minimal bleeding while performing the procedure efficiently. The clamp itself actually provides some hemostasis (stopping of bleeding), and allows for the procedure to be performed quickly — usually under one minute — which minimizes the amount of time the baby will be uncomfortable. It is favoured over other instruments such as the Mogen shield (which does not provide hemostasis and thus increases the risk of bleeding) and the Gomco clamp (which takes much more time to perform).

These instruments are completely sterile and the entire procedure is performed under sterile technique to decrease the risk of infection.

Pain Management

Prior to the procedure, I perform a penile nerve block using local anaesthetic. While this part might add some discomfort, this will allow your child to feel much less pain during the procedure itself. It will also provide pain relief for hours after the procedure. I typically will arrive early to perform this ahead of time to allow the nerve block to take full effect in order to maximize pain relief. There are no laws against performing this nerve block in Jewish law, and it is recommended by the Rabbinical Assembly.

Additionally, I provide oral sucrose (sugar water) during the procedure, which studies show further improve your child's comfort during the procedure. It is completely safe.

Aftercare

After the procedure, I will apply a dressing and provide full aftercare instructions, which will also be available on this website. I will also be available by text/phone in the days and weeks after the procedure to assist with any questions around aftercare. Please note, mild amounts of bleeding and a yellowish "scab" are normal and expected after the procedure.

As a certified emergency physician, I am also trained to recognize and treat the more serious complications of the procedure.

Immediately after the procedure

Immediately after the bris, I will apply a bandage with antibiotic ointment directly onto the circumcision site. Please note that some bleeding is expected post-procedure and should resolve within hours of the procedure.

Diaper changes

With every diaper change after the procedure, you should not touch the circumcision site at all. You will wipe the baby as normal in every area but the circumcision site, remove the old bandage, place a new bandage with antibiotic ointment on the site (which I will show you on procedure day), and close the diaper. Most healing takes place over the first 4 days, and this should be done with every diaper change during this time. Do not bathe your child or submerge the area in water for 4 days.

Comfort & regular activities

Tylenol is not mandatory, but if you feel your child is uncomfortable, infant Tylenol may be given. Otherwise, feeding, tummy time, car seats, and other regular activities are all healthy and encouraged.

What to expect during healing

You may also notice a yellowish scab around the area — this is normal. If you have any concerns about the healing process of your child, I will be available by text in the days and weeks post-procedure to answer any questions. I will also provide verbal and written instructions on the day of the procedure.

What is Brit Milah

Brit Milah — the covenant of circumcision — is one of the most important mitzvot in Judaism. It is rooted in the book of Genesis, when God commanded Abraham to circumcise himself and all the males in his household. It signifies our connection to God and our commitment to Judaism. It has been performed for thousands of years, by Jews worldwide, and has even been performed in some of the darkest times in our peoples' history, when people risked their lives to uphold this sacred tradition.

The Ceremony

On the day of the ceremony itself, the ceremony typically takes 20–25 minutes. There are many roles involved in the procedure that you may want to think about assigning ahead of time. The ceremony itself is incredibly meaningful, and having loved ones involved in the ceremony further adds to the meaning.

• The Kvatter/Kvatterin

  The Kvatter is the person responsible for bringing your child into the room. Up to six people can be honoured with being a Kvatter, providing you with the opportunity to honour many of your loved ones who will be in attendance.

• The Chair of Elijah

  Your child will briefly be placed (or the Kvatter will sit on) a chair, symbolizing the chair of the Prophet Elijah. Jewish tradition teaches that the prophet Elijah attends every brit milah as a witness to the Jewish people's enduring commitment to this covenant. It is also said that Elijah will bring forth the Messiah — the chair symbolizes that every child has the opportunity to bring good into the world.

• The Sandek

  The Sandek is the person who holds your child during the ceremony. It is one of the most important roles in the ceremony and the honour is typically given to a grandparent or a deeply respected person in the family. If there is more than one person you would like to honour with this role, a second Sandek can be honoured, one who holds the baby during the blessings and naming after the procedure.

• Blessings and Naming

  After the procedure, we will join together for blessings over wine and for healing. We will also then name the child, officially welcoming them into the Jewish people. This is an opportunity for the parents to prepare something to be said about your child's English and Hebrew names and the meanings behind them.

Things to Prepare

There is not much for you to prepare for the ceremony. My goal is to make this day as easy for you as possible. I will provide all the equipment and aftercare supplies. All that is required of you is a sturdy table at working height (often kitchen/dining room table), an empty chair close by to be the Chair of Elijah, a kiddush cup, kosher wine, and a tallit if you choose to wear one.