Hypospadias is an inborn or congenital condition that is present in some boys since their birth, in which the opening for the urethra or the tube through which urine leaves the body is located on the underside of the penis (rather than on top of the penis, at the tip). This may seem frightening to parents, but hypospadias is extremely common and easily treated. Especially when detected early, treatment can be successful and restore normal urination and sexual function later in life. In this article, we will discuss in detail the condition of hypospadias and the hypospadias treatment options for the same.
What is Hypospadias?
In healthy males, the urethral opening (meatus) is located at the tip of the penis. In boys affected with hypospadias, the meatus is located on the underside of the penis, anywhere from just below the tip and curving down to the scrotum, in more severe cases.
The types of Hypospadias include the location of the urethral opening:
- Distal hypospadias: Opening at the head of the penis, which is very common
- Midshaft hypospadias: Opening along the shaft
- Proximal hypospadias: Opening near the base, or in the scrotum, which is a more severe condition
What are the causes and risk factors of Hypospadias?
While the exact cause of hypospadias is still unknown, it has been noted that it occurs during fetal development, typically between 8 to 14 weeks of pregnancy. Some factors that might contribute to this condition include:
- Genetics
- Hormonal Imbalances during Pregnancy
- Maternal Factors
- Assisted Reproductive Technologies
However, it is extremely important to understand that parents are not the ones who are in control of this condition, so they are not the ones to be blamed for the same. In most cases, the condition of hypospadias surgery is not preventable.
What are the symptoms of hypospadias?
The symptoms of hypospadias include:
- The urethral opening is not at the tip of the penis.
- Downward curve of the penis
- Abnormal spraying of urine
- In some cases, the foreskin might give a hooded look or appear incomplete
Is Hypospadias treatable?
Yes, Hypospadias is a highly treatable condition. The treatment options include:
- Depending on the severity, hypospadias surgery correction is done between 6 to 18 months of age
- The procedure aims to create a normal cosmetic appearance, relocate the urethral opening to the tip of the penis, and straighten any curvature.
- It is usually an outpatient procedure, but might require short hospital stays in some cases.
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