Hypospadias in Children: Causes, Diagnosis, and Treatment – Dr Prabhu Karunakaran
Hypospadias is a common congenital condition — and when treated correctly and at the right time, children can grow up with normal function and a healthy life.
What Is Hypospadias?
Hypospadias is a condition seen in some boys at birth where the urinary opening is not located at the tip of the penis.
Instead, the opening is present on the underside of the penis.
The severity of hypospadias depends on how far down this opening is located — the lower the opening, the more severe the condition.
In many children:
- The foreskin is incomplete on the underside
- This creates a characteristic hooded appearance
Why Does Hypospadias Occur?
During pregnancy, the penis and urinary tube develop under the influence of a male hormone called dihydrotestosterone (DHT).
If the hormonal effect is inadequate, or the tissues do not respond properly the urinary tube does not form completely, resulting in hypospadias.
Hypospadias occurs in approximately 1 in every 250 boys.
Risk may be higher when:
- A family member is affected
- Certain environmental factors are present
- Assisted reproductive techniques are used
How Is Hypospadias Diagnosed?
Diagnosis is usually made by a simple physical examination at birth.
The pediatric urologist will also look for associated conditions such as:
- Undescended testis
- Inguinal hernia
Hypospadias is not life-threatening, but it can affect a child’s quality of life if left untreated.
Why Treatment Is Important
Children with hypospadias may experience:
- Difficulty passing urine while standing
- Abnormal urine stream
- Penile curvature (chordee), which can cause problems later in life
Early correction helps prevent physical, functional, and psychological issues as the child grows.
How Is Hypospadias Treated?
Hypospadias is treated with surgery.
The goals of surgery are to:
- Create a normal urinary passage
- Bring the opening to the tip of the penis
- Correct any penile curvature
The foreskin is often required for reconstruction.
Circumcision should NOT be done before hypospadias surgery.
When Is the Best Time for Surgery?
- Ideal age for surgery: 6 to 18 months
- Surgery at this age allows:
- Better healing
- Less psychological impact
- Excellent long-term outcomes
In most cases, surgery performed by an experienced pediatric urologist results in best function and appearance.
Key Takeaways
- Hypospadias is a common condition present at birth
- Severity depends on how low the opening is positioned
- Hypospadias is not life-threatening, but affects quality of life
- Surgery is the definitive treatment
- Best surgical age is 6–18 months
- Early diagnosis and expert care with highly trained Pediatric Urologist reduce complications and ensure excellent outcomes
Book a Consultation
For expert pediatric urology care and robotic surgery in Hyderabad:
Visit: https://drprabhukarunakaran.com/appointment/
WhatsApp: 8500550328 or 
Call: 8500550328