Hypospadias in babies and children
Under normal conditions, the hole where urine exits in children (urethral meatus) is located at the tip of the glans of the penis. This allows men to urinate "forward". But it does not always happen that way. When that hole is located in the lower portion of the glans, or in the middle of the penis,
Under normal conditions, the hole where urine exits in children (urethral meatus) is located at the tip of the glans of the penis. This allows men to urinate "forward". But it does not always happen that way. When that hole is located in the lower portion of the glans, or in the middle of the penis, or in the junction of the scrotum with the penis, we call this situation "hypospadias."
In Guiainfantil.com we tell you how to detect hypospadias in babies and children and what their treatment is.
Questions and answers about hypospadias in babies and children
What is hypospadias in babies and children?
It occurs when the hole where the urine comes out is located in the lower part of the glans and not in the tip of the glans.
Is it a frequent disorder in children?
This malformation appears in 2-8 of every 1000 newborns.
What are the causes of hypospadias in children?
They are not well typified, although their association with some factors is mentioned, such as maternal age (it is more frequent in elderly mothers), the number of children (it is more frequent in the firstborn male), consumption during the first trimester of pregnancy of valproic acid, the weight of the newborn (its incidence is greater in those under 1500 g), some genetic alterations, etc.
Symptoms of hypospadias in children
This alteration does not usually extend beyond the aesthetic variation, marked by an abnormal location of the urethral meatus, an incomplete development of the foreskin, an abnormal direction of the urinary stream and an exaggerated curvature of the penis. This last aspect can involve the appearance of problems when having sexual relations.
Diagnosis of hypospadias in childhood
The diagnosis is clinical, and can be established from the first exploration of the newborn. No additional tests are needed.
What is the treatment for hypospadias in infants and children?
Its treatment is surgical, in one or two times, depending on the degree of deformity. Correction is advised between 6 months and two years of life. It is a simple surgery that does not require hospitalization.
