Hypospadias is a genital anomaly that occurs in males and primarily affects the urethra. It is a very common condition, affecting about one out of every 200-300 male babies born.

Unfortunately, many parents and individuals affected by hypospadias may not be aware of the condition until later in life.

What is Hypospadias?

Hypospadias is a genital anomaly in males where the urethral opening is located on the underside of the penis, rather than at the tip.

This means that the penis may curve downwards, and in severe cases, the urethra may open at the base of the penis or even the scrotum. In some cases, hypospadias can also lead to a smaller than average penis size, low sperm counts, and infertility.

Types of Hypospadias

Hypospadias can be separated into three main types, depending on where the urethral opening is located:.

Anterior Hypospadias

Anterior hypospadias is the most common type. The urethral opening is located at the base of the head of the penis (glans).

Midshaft Hypospadias

Midshaft hypospadias is less common, and the urethral opening is located along the shaft of the penis, somewhere between the head and the base.

Posterior Hypospadias

Posterior hypospadias is the least common type, and the urethral opening is located at the base of the penis or in the scrotum.

Causes of Hypospadias

The exact cause of hypospadias is not well understood, although several factors have been linked to the condition:.

Genetics: Hypospadias tends to run in families, suggesting a genetic component to the condition.
Hormones: Abnormal levels of hormones during fetal development may affect the development of the urethra.
Environmental factors: Exposure to certain hormonal disruptors or toxic chemicals during fetal development may increase the risk of hypospadias. Studies have linked hypospadias to exposure to pesticides, phthalates, and other endocrine-disrupting chemicals.

Diagnosis of Hypospadias

Hypospadias is usually diagnosed shortly after birth during a physical examination. Typically, the doctor will be able to identify the condition visually, based on the appearance of the penis.

Further testing may be done to determine the type and severity of hypospadias and if any other abnormalities are present.

Treatment of Hypospadias

Treatment for hypospadias is typically surgical. The goal of surgery is to reposition the urethral opening to the tip of the penis, so the male can urinate standing up and have normal sexual function.

Surgery is typically performed in early childhood, often before the age of 2, to avoid complications and ensure the best possible outcome.

Complications of Hypospadias

Complications associated with hypospadias include:.

Urinary tract infections: Boys with hypospadias are at increased risk of urinary tract infections, which can cause complications if left untreated.
Complications during surgery: Surgery for hypospadias can lead to complications, such as bleeding, infection, or poor wound healing.
Emotional and psychological challenges: Boys with hypospadias may experience emotional and psychological challenges related to body image and sexual function.

Prevention of Hypospadias

There is no guaranteed way to prevent hypospadias, but parents can take several steps to reduce the risk:.

Avoid exposure to endocrine-disrupting chemicals, such as phthalates and pesticides, during pregnancy and early childhood.
Ensure proper prenatal care and follow your doctor’s recommendations for a healthy pregnancy.
Inform your doctor if there is a family history of hypospadias or other genital anomalies.

Conclusion

Hypospadias is a common genital anomaly in males, affecting the urethra and resulting in the opening being in an abnormal location.

Diagnosis is done through physical examination, often at birth, and can be treated through surgery, often before the age of 2. Further research is needed to better understand the causes and prevalence of hypospadias, but awareness and prevention measures can help reduce the risk of this condition.