Hypospadias is a congenital birth defect whereby the opening of the urethra (where the urine comes out off) is on the underside of the penis instead of the tip (see image).

It is quite common affecting 1 in 150 to 250 males at birth and is the 2nd most common birth defect of the male urological system. Sometimes, it is associated with an undescended testis.

Symptoms & Signs

There is usually NO pain but there is abnormal spraying during urination because of the urethral opening in on the underside of the penis.

Sometimes, the penis has a downward curved (chordee) look or a hooded appearance because only the top half of the penis has a foreskin.

Treatment

Surgery is required to reposition the urethral opening and close off the abnormal one. It is best done between the ages of 6 to 12 months. Treatment is required because it may affect sexual function later on in life (such as erection or ejaculation) as well as toilet training.

Sometimes, the penis also needs to be straightened during the surgery and also the foreskin repaired. The success rate is over 90% although some may need a 2nd surgery at a later date.

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