Hypospadias is one of the most common congenital (birth) conditions affecting baby boys—but it’s also one that many parents have never heard of until their child is diagnosed. Although the condition can be concerning at first, the good news is that hypospadias is treatable with safe and effective surgery.

In this blog, Dr. Rahul Yadav, Urologist and expert in pediatric urological care, explains what hypospadias is, how it’s diagnosed, and when and how it should be treated.

What is Hypospadias?

Hypospadias is a condition where the opening of the urethra (the tube that carries urine out of the body) is located on the underside of the penis, rather than at the tip. This can occur:

• Just below the tip (glanular or subcoronal)
• Along the shaft (midshaft)
• Near the scrotum (penoscrotal)
• In severe cases, the opening may be in or behind the scrotum

It often occurs along with a downward bend of the penis, known as chordee, and an incomplete foreskin, giving the penis a “hooded” appearance.

How Common are Hypospadias?

Hypospadias affects about 1 in every 200 to 300 male births, making it one of the most common urogenital birth defects.

While mild cases may not significantly impact function, moderate to severe forms usually require surgical correction to ensure normal urination and sexual function later in life.

What Causes Hypospadias?

The exact cause isn’t always known, but several factors may contribute:

• Genetic influences: A family history increases the risk.
• Hormonal imbalances during fetal development.
• Environmental exposure: Certain chemicals during pregnancy (such as endocrine disruptors) may play a role.
• Maternal age or health conditions, such as diabetes or use of fertility treatments.

It’s important to remember: Hypospadias is not caused by anything the parents did wrong during pregnancy.

How is Hypospadias Diagnosed?

Hypospadias is typically identified at birth during a routine newborn exam. A pediatrician or urologist will examine:

• The position of the urethral opening
• The curvature of the penis
• The foreskin development

In most cases, no imaging tests are needed unless there are other urological concerns.

Why Should Hypospadias Be Treated?

If left untreated, hypospadias can cause:

• Urinary issues: Difficulty aiming the stream or needing to sit to urinate
• Curvature of the penis: Causing discomfort or dysfunction in adulthood
• Fertility issues: In severe cases, ejaculation may not occur properly
• Psychological effects: Related to body image or sexual confidence

That’s why surgical correction during infancy or early childhood is generally recommended.

What is the Best Time for Surgery?

The ideal age for hypospadias surgery is usually between 6 to 18 months of age. At this age:

• The penis is large enough for the surgeon to work on
• The child won’t remember the surgery
• Healing is generally faster

In some cases, the surgery may be done later, especially if the condition was diagnosed late or the child had other health issues.

Surgical Treatment for Hypospadias

Surgery is the only effective treatment and is tailored to the severity of the condition.

Goals of the Surgery:

• Move the urethral opening to the tip of the penis
• Straighten any curvature (chordee)
• Reconstruct the foreskin or perform circumcision if needed

Types of Procedures:

• Tubularized Incised Plate (TIP) Urethroplasty – Common for mild to moderate cases
• Onlay or staged repairs – For more complex or proximal hypospadias

Surgery is usually done as a day-care procedure under general anesthesia. In some cases, a temporary catheter may be placed to help with healing.

What is Recovery Like?

• Most children go home the same day or after 24 hours
• A catheter may remain in place for 5–10 days
• Mild swelling and bruising are normal
• Pain is well-controlled with medications
• Follow-up visits are essential to monitor healing

Dr. Rahul Yadav ensures that parents are guided every step of the way—from preparation through post-operative care.

Can Hypospadias Come Back After Surgery?

Most children recover well and lead completely normal lives. However, rare complications can include:

• Fistula formation (urine leaking from a hole in the repaired area)
• Urethral stricture (narrowing)
• Persistent curvature

In such cases, a second surgery may be needed, but this is uncommon when performed by an experienced urologist.

Is Circumcision Recommended for Boys with Hypospadias?

No. Circumcision should be avoided in infants with hypospadias until seen by a urologist. The foreskin may be needed for reconstruction during surgery.

As a leading urologist with expertise in pediatric urology, Dr. Rahul Yadav provides compassionate, precise, and comprehensive care for children with hypospadias. With advanced surgical techniques and a strong focus on outcomes, he ensures your child gets the best possible start in life.

If your baby has been diagnosed with hypospadias, don’t panic. Early evaluation and expert care can ensure excellent functional and cosmetic results.

Book a consultation with Dr. Rahul Yadav today for a detailed evaluation and personalized treatment plan.