What Is Hypospadias ?
A birth defect of the urethra, hypospadias in a male is characterized by the presence of the urinary opening on the head of the penis rather than the usual opening.
The second most common birth defect in boys, it tends to affect 1 child in every 250 children. Mostly the urinary opening is on the glans and is referred to as “distal hypospadias”.
A shiny tissue, called urethral plate, is prominent is such cases, which is observed to extend from the meatus to the tip of the glans.
Moreover, the foreskin may also be underdeveloped and may not wrap around the penis which may lead to the glans being left exposed.
Apart from causing distress, in most of the cases hypospadias does not cause any other complications.
There are three types of hypospadias which may depend upon the type and location of the defect. It includes:
- Subcoronal: The opening of the urethra is located somewhere near the head of the penis.
- Midshaft: The opening of the urethra is located along the shaft of the penis.
- Penoscrotal: The opening of the urethra is located where the penis and scrotum meet.
Causes Of Hypospadias:
The underlying cause of hypospadias is yet unknown. However, research regarding its cause is still ongoing. It may be inherited or be a result of some genetic mutation.
The mechanism is marked by malfunctioning in the action of the hormones which stimulate the formation of the urethra and the foreskin if the penis.
Possible risk factors may include:
- Age and weight of the mother
- An age of 35 years or older and mothers who are obese have a higher risk of having a baby with hypospadias
- Fertility treatments:
- There is a link between using assisted reproductive technology to help with pregnancy and hypospadias
- Certain hormones:
- Taking certain hormones just before or during pregnancy were linked to hypospadia
Symptoms Of Hypospadias:
The following symptoms are exhibited by affected infants:
- Opening of the urethra at a location other than the tip of the penis
- Downward curve of the penis
- Hooded appearance of the penis
- Abnormal spraying during urination
Diagnosis Of Hypospadias:
Hypospadias can be diagnosed via:
- Physical examination
- A sex determination evaluation, in severe cases
Treatment Of Hypospadias:
Hypospadias is treated via not circumcising the infant and using the foreskin for surgical repair later.
Moreover, the treatment involves corrective surgery, which may be the only solution.
By : Natural Health News
