Hypospadias

Hypospadias is a condition in which the opening of the urethra—the tube that carries urine to the outside of the body—in a male develops irregularly. A male with hypospadias is born with the opening of the urethra located on the underside of the penis, below the tip. The exact cause of hypospadias is not fully…

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Medical review: Adam Husney MD, John Pope MD MPH, Peter Anderson MD FRCSC

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This information does not replace the advice of a doctor. Healthwise, Incorporated, disclaims any warranty or liability for your use of this information. Your use of this information means that you agree to the Terms of Use. Learn how we develop our content.

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Hypospadias

Hypospadias is a condition in which the opening of the urethra—the tube that carries urine to the outside of the body—in a male develops irregularly. A male with hypospadias is born with the opening of the urethra located on the underside of the penis, below the tip.

The exact cause of hypospadias is not fully understood, but most cases are thought to be related to abnormal hormonal stimulation of the fetus. Hypospadias develops between the 8th and 12th week of fetal development.

Hypospadias is treated with surgery to correct the placement of the opening of the urethra.

Sometimes genetic testing is needed to confirm the sex of a child born with this condition.

This information does not replace the advice of a doctor. Healthwise, Incorporated, disclaims any warranty or liability for your use of this information. Your use of this information means that you agree to the Terms of Use. Learn how we develop our content.