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What is metzitzah b'peh?<|im_end|>
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The practice of metzitzah b'peh, or oral suction during ritual circumcision, is a controversial practice used by a small number of Orthodox mohels (Jewish ritual circumcisers). 

Following the circumcision, the mohel takes a sip of wine and quickly removes the blood from the penis through the wine using his mouth and then spits the mixture out. Metzitzah b'peh was once thought to disinfect the wound before the development of germ theory of disease.

Many assume this practice is a hallmark of strict religious observance in adherence to Jewish tradition. However, metzitzah b'peh is actually dangerous and conflicts with basic Jewish principles, and the practice is uncommon even among those Jews who opt for religious circumcision of their sons. Nevertheless, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention reported that between 2000 and 2011, at least 11 New York infants contracted genital herpes following ritual circumcision with metzitzah b'peh, and two of the babies died.<|im_end|>
