What is it?
Hypospadias is a condition present at birth where the opening of the urine passage is on the underside of the penis rather than at the tip. There may also be a downward bend and an incomplete foreskin.
Common symptoms
- Urinary opening placed below the tip
- Urine stream sprays or points downwards
- Hooded or incomplete foreskin
- Curvature of the penis (chordee)
Causes
It develops during pregnancy as the urine passage forms. In most cases no specific cause is found.
When should parents consult a surgeon?
- • You notice an abnormal urinary opening or stream
- • The foreskin looks incomplete
- • Before any circumcision is planned — the foreskin may be needed for repair
How is it diagnosed?
Clinical examination at birth or in early infancy by a paediatric surgeon.
Treatment options
- Surgical repair to reposition the opening at the tip
- Straightening of any curvature
- Reconstruction using the child's own tissue
When surgery may be required
Usually between six and eighteen months of age. Some severe forms are repaired in two stages.
What happens during surgery
The surgeon creates a new passage to the tip, straightens the penis and reconstructs the skin covering. A small catheter may stay for a few days.
Recovery
Dressings and the catheter are removed after a few days. Full healing takes a few weeks, with follow-up to confirm a good stream.
Frequently asked questions
Should we get a circumcision done first?
No. Please avoid circumcision before consulting — the foreskin tissue is often needed for the repair.
Will my son urinate and function normally?
With a well-performed repair, the great majority of boys pass urine normally while standing and have normal function later.
This page is general information for parents and does not replace a consultation. Every child is different — please have your child examined before deciding on treatment.