It can be difficult for parents to learn that their child has been diagnosed with a birth defect. One such alarming condition is hypospadias, a congenital condition affecting the boys. In this condition, the opening of the urethra is located on the underside of the penis instead of the tip. To shed light on this topic, we spoke to our expert Dr Mohammed Asrar Ul Huq Iqbal, Consultant Paediatric Hepatologist and Gastroenterologist, Gleneagles Hospitals, Hyderabad, who explained its symptoms, causes, and the treatments available.
What is Hypospadias?
According to StatPearls, hypospadias affects the development of a boy's genitalia from birth. This happens because the tissues that form the urethra and foreskin don’t develop as they normally should.
“Hypospadias occurs during foetal development and varies in severity. It may seem alarming to parents at first, but it is treatable with modern surgical techniques, enabling affected children to live normal lives,” said Dr Iqbal.
Types of Hypospadias
In children with hypospadias, the urethral opening may appear along the shaft of the penis, near the scrotum, or even further back. The condition is categorised into:
Distal Hypospadias: Urethral opening is close to the head of the penis.
Midshaft Hypospadias: Opening is along the shaft.
Proximal Hypospadias: The urethral opening is located in the scrotal region or close to the base of the penis.
Hypospadias may also involve curvature of the penis (chordee) and an incomplete or abnormal foreskin development, giving the penis an atypical appearance.
Also Read: Ultrasound And Foetal Health: Expert Explains Role Of Ultrasound In Detecting Foetal Anomalies
Symptoms of Hypospadias
Here are some signs that may indicate your child has hypospadias:
Abnormal Urethral Opening: The most noticeable sign is the misplaced opening of the urethra.
The curvature of the Penis: This can become more evident during erections later in life.
Difficulty Urinating: The child may have to sit or aim differently while urinating.
Cosmetic Concerns: The penis may appear unusual due to the foreskin being incomplete or asymmetrical.
Causes of Hypospadias
The definite cause of hypospadias has not been found yet, however, several factors may contribute. Here are some shared by Dr Iqbal:
Genetic Factors: Hypospadias is more likely to occur in families with a history of the condition.
Hormonal Influences: Abnormal levels of certain hormones during foetal development may interfere with urethral and penile formation.
Environmental Factors: Exposure to certain chemicals or medications during pregnancy may play a role, though the evidence is limited.
While maternal health, nutrition, and certain medications are suspected contributors, hypospadias is not typically preventable.
Treatment Options For Hypospadias
Treatment for hypospadias is almost always surgical. The aim is to restore normal appearance and function to the penis, allowing proper urination and sexual function later in life. Here are some treatment approaches listed by the expert:
Timing of Surgery: Surgery is usually performed between 6 months and 2 years of age, depending on the severity of the condition and the child’s overall health.
Surgical Techniques: The surgery involves repositioning the urethral opening to its correct location and, if needed, straightening the penis to the correct chordee. Tissue grafts may be used in more complex cases.
Post-Surgery Care: Recovery includes careful monitoring for infection, pain management, and avoiding activities that may strain the surgical site.
With early diagnosis and appropriate treatment, children with hypospadias usually achieve normal urinary and reproductive functions. Advances in pediatric urology ensure high success rates with minimal complications.
Bottomline
Dr Iqbal concluded, “Parents should consult a paediatrician if they notice any abnormalities in their child’s genitalia, including a misplaced urethral opening or penile curvature. Hypospadias is a manageable condition, and with proper medical care, children can lead healthy, fulfilling lives. Always rely on a specialist’s guidance to ensure the best care for your child.”
[Disclaimer: This article contains information provided by an expert and is for informational purposes only. Hence, we advise you to consult your professional if you are dealing with any health issues to avoid complications.]