About this condition
Hypospadias is a congenital difference in which the urethral opening is not at the usual position at the tip of the penis. Appearance and functional impact vary widely; a clinician must evaluate each child individually.
What matters most
The opening may lie anywhere along the underside of the penis. The foreskin may have a hooded appearance, and the penis can be curved in some cases. The position of the opening alone does not describe how much intervention may be needed.
Symptoms and reasons to seek care
Parents may notice the opening below the expected position, an unusual foreskin configuration, curvature or a urine stream that is difficult to direct. Some children pass urine without any immediate functional difficulty.
How it differs from similar conditions
Hypospadias is distinct from phimosis or a simple foreskin adhesion. Other anatomical differences, including testicular position, may influence the assessment. Do not try to correct the opening or straighten the penis yourself.
Assessment and diagnosis
The paediatric urology specialist examines the position and size of the opening, glans, foreskin, possible curvature and testes. Further testing is not routine in all children; it is guided by accompanying findings or more complex anatomy.
Monitoring and treatment
Some cases may be observed, while others are considered for reconstructive surgery. Timing and method require specialist discussion of goals, alternatives, complications and follow-up. If hypospadias is suspected, parents should discuss circumcision plans with a specialist first; this page does not confirm reconstructive surgery at MZ.
When emergency help is needed
Inability to pass urine, marked pain, rapidly worsening swelling or a child becoming acutely ill needs urgent medical assessment. Call emergency services 103 or 112 when needed; otherwise arrange a scheduled specialist evaluation.
Related information
Undescended testicle in children; Varicocele in children and adolescents; Spermatocele and epididymal cyst in a child.
Signs and symptoms
Parents may notice the opening below the expected position, an unusual foreskin configuration, curvature or a urine stream that is difficult to direct. Some children pass urine without any immediate functional difficulty.
Diagnosis and tests
The paediatric urology specialist examines the position and size of the opening, glans, foreskin, possible curvature and testes. Further testing is not routine in all children; it is guided by accompanying findings or more complex anatomy.
Care and treatment approaches
Some cases may be observed, while others are considered for reconstructive surgery. Timing and method require specialist discussion of goals, alternatives, complications and follow-up. If hypospadias is suspected, parents should discuss circumcision plans with a specialist first; this page does not confirm reconstructive surgery at MZ.
When to seek urgent care
Inability to pass urine, marked pain, rapidly worsening swelling or a child becoming acutely ill needs urgent medical assessment. Call emergency services 103 or 112 when needed; otherwise arrange a scheduled specialist evaluation.
Frequently asked questions
Can hypospadias be recognized in a newborn?
It is often identified during newborn examination because the urethral opening or foreskin looks different.
Does every child need an operation?
Not always. Functional impact, anatomy and family preferences are discussed with a paediatric urology specialist.
Should circumcision be done before specialist assessment?
If hypospadias is suspected, discuss this first with the surgeon, because foreskin tissue may matter in planning repair.
Information sources
Medical source links used when preparing this article.
Important information
A medical consultation is needed for diagnosis and treatment recommendations.
Self-treatment can be harmful to your health.
