Hi jz,
I have not had my boys circumcised, but my younger brother was circumcised, and a friend has just had to have her 10yo done because of persistant infections.
My brother was circumcised about 2 weeks after his birth. He didn't appear to be in any discomfort, and was a happy content newborn baby. They do not use any anesthetic in newborns, which to me seems very cruel.
My friends 10 yo though did have anesthetic and seemed to be in a great deal of pain for several days after "his ordeal" (his words). The doctors told his mum, that it is much like a man having a vasectomy, and that he would be very tender for a few days afterwards. We now he was in pain, but we think he was "playing it on" a bit in order to get sympathy.
While I personally think circumcision is wrong, other people do have their beliefs, reasons etc as to why they would like it done, and I respect that. I have taught my eldest son (now almost 11) how to keep himself clean, and he has never had a problem. I will also teach my youngest son when he is old enough, so hopefully he won't have problems either. That was the main reason my friends 10 yo needed the surgery...because he didn't clean himself.
I wish you all the best with you sons surgery. Just be prepared to see him a little swollen and bruised, and possibly have a little blood, but I'm sure at 6 months of age, it won't take him long to get over it. Let me know how he goes. If you like, you can email to traceyl01@hotmail.com
Mother of 3, Qld