Introduction Hypospadias is a common congenital condition in male infants where the urethral opening is on the underside of the penis instead of the tip. Identified at birth, it varies in severity and can impact urinary and reproductive functions. Advanced surgical interventions offer excellent outcomes.
Types of Hypospadias
- Distal Hypospadias: Urethral opening near the tip of the penis (mild).
- Midshaft Hypospadias: Opening along the penile shaft’s middle.
- Proximal Hypospadias: Opening near the scrotum or perineum (severe).
Causes and Risk Factors
- Genetic predisposition
- Hormonal disruptions during pregnancy
- Environmental influences (medications, chemicals)
- Maternal health conditions (diabetes, obesity)
Signs and Symptoms
- Abnormal urethral opening on the underside of the penis
- Chordee (downward curvature of the penis)
- Hooded foreskin
- Urinary stream abnormalities
Diagnosis Typically diagnosed at birth during a routine physical examination by a pediatric urologist. Further assessments determine severity and treatment approach.
Treatment Options Surgical Intervention Usually performed between 6 to 18 months, aiming to:
- Reposition the urethral opening
- Correct penile curvature (chordee correction)
- Restore normal penile appearance (foreskin reconstruction or circumcision)
Post-Surgical Care and Recovery Parents should:
- Maintain cleanliness around the surgical site
- Avoid tight diapers
- Administer prescribed medications
- Monitor urination patterns
- Attend follow-up consultations
Importance of Early Treatment Failure to treat hypospadias can lead to:
- Urinary difficulties
- Sexual function issues later in life
- Potential infertility concerns
Early surgical correction ensures optimal function and appearance, preventing future complications.
Conclusion Hypospadias is manageable with high success rates when treated by experienced pediatric urologists. Early diagnosis and surgery can restore normal urinary function and prevent complications in adulthood. Reach out to Little Stars & She Hospital for specialized pediatric urology care.
Schedule a Consultation Today! Connect with Little Stars & She Hospital to consult with our expert pediatric surgeons and ensure the best possible care for your child’s well-being.
1. Why does my baby’s urine stream look abnormal?
Parents may notice that their baby’s urine stream is not straight or comes out in a downward or unusual direction, which can be a sign of hypospadias.
2. Why does my baby’s penis look different?
A curved or shorter penis with an opening on the underside instead of the tip could indicate hypospadias. The foreskin may also appear incomplete, with extra skin on top and missing on the underside.
3. Is it normal for my baby’s foreskin to be incomplete?
An incomplete foreskin (hooded appearance) is often one of the first visible signs of hypospadias. Parents may notice that the foreskin doesn’t fully cover the penis.
4. Why is my baby’s penis curved?
A downward bending of the penis (chordee) can occur in moderate to severe cases of hypospadias. This curvature may become more noticeable with growth.
5. My baby’s circumcision looks different. Is something wrong?
Doctors often delay circumcision in babies with hypospadias because the foreskin may be needed for surgical correction later. If a doctor advises against immediate circumcision, they may suspect hypospadias.
6. My baby dribbles urine or has difficulty urinating—what could be the reason?
If a baby has trouble directing their urine stream, dribbles, or strains while urinating, it could be due to the misplaced urethral opening caused by hypospadias.
