Hypospadias: Causes, Treatment, and Long-term Implications for Boys

hypospadias

abnormal congenital opening of the male urethra on the undersurface of the penis

Hypospadias is a congenital condition where in males, the urethra opening is located on the underside of the penis instead of at the tip. This condition is more common in males than females, with approximately 1 in 200 newborn boys being affected by it.

There are varying degrees of severity of hypospadias and the treatment options will depend on the degree of severity of the condition. In mild cases, no treatment may be required, and the boy can live without any long-term complications. In more severe cases, treatment may be necessary to correct the position of the urethra to allow for normal urination and sexual function.

Surgery is the most common treatment option for hypospadias. The best time to perform the surgery is between the ages of 6 months to 2 years, when the penis is not fully developed but has started to grow. The surgery involves reconstructing the urethra and positioning the opening at the tip of the penis. In more severe cases, additional surgical procedures may be necessary.

It is important for parents of children with hypospadias to be aware of the potential complications and long-term implications of the condition. These can include difficulty with urination, problems with sexual function and fertility, and psychological effects on the child’s self-esteem. Regular follow-up with a pediatric urologist is important to monitor for any long-term effects or complications.

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