What exactly is hypospadias?

Hypospadias is a congenital condition in which the opening hole of the urethra is not on the tip of the penis. It may be found on the bottom of the penis, the head of the penis, the shaft, or the scrotum. The urethra is the tube that drains urine and sperm from the body after passing through the penis. Because it does not cause problems, it is often left untreated. A pediatrician may perform surgery to correct the condition. 

For hypospadias treatment, book your appointment with Dr. Bijal Karvir one of the best Pediatric Gastroenterologist in Mumbai.

What are the different forms of Hypospadias?

The following types are classified according to the urethral opening:

The entrance of the urethra is placed on the head of the penis rather than the tip in glandular hypospadias. It could be left untreated as it doesn't misdirect urination. The urethral opening lies towards the head of the penis in subcoronal hypospadias. The opening in the midshaft runs along the penis shaft.The opening in the penoscrotal is placed where the shaft meets the scrotum.

What are the signs and symptoms?

Among the signs and symptoms of hypospadias in children are:

The opening of the urethra at a site other than the tip of the penisThe downward curve of the penisThe head of the penis is not entirely covered.Urine discharge does not go in a straight path.

What are the Risk Factors and Causes?

During pregnancy, urethral abnormalities arise. Hypospadias is caused by a failure of the hormones that form the urethra. This may lead to the abnormally developed or underdeveloped urethra in a baby's penis. The disease is connected with the following risk factors:

A family history of hypospadias contains several genetic abnormalities that increase the risk in a male member of the family.The age and weight of the mother increase the incidence of hypospadias in a male newborn.Fertility treatment and specialized hormone therapy raise the risk of internal hormone dysfunction.Smoking, pesticides, and industrial pollutants all raise the risk.

How is it identified?

Pediatricians usually diagnose the condition of a new-born soon after birth. It is a regular new-born examination to ensure that the urethra opening is not dislocated after birth. Hypospadias repair surgery closes the hole in the penis and restores its normal appearance.

What are the treatment options?

Mild hypospadias with no penis curvature does not need surgery. Some serious hypospadias situations need surgical correction. Surgery may cure penile curvature, straighten the penis, reconstruct the urethra, and establish a urethral opening at the tip of the penis. When a child is between the ages of six and twelve months, surgery is done. Antibiotics are given to the infant after surgery to avoid infection.

If hypospadias is not corrected, abnormal curvature and displacement of the urethra opening make urination difficulties.

Also read: What are Pediatric Intestinal Disorders?

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