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How can hypospadias affect the opening of the urethra?
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reproductive system disease
Varicocele, enlargement of the veins of the spermatic cord, is a cause of infertility in men.
Hypospadias is a congenital condition characterized by the incomplete closure of the urethra, which results in the urethral canal remaining open for a distance at its outer end along the underside (ventral side) of the penis.12
This defect affects the opening of the urethra in the following ways:
- Abnormal Placement: Instead of opening at the tip of the penis, the urethral opening (meatus) is located on the underside of the penis.132
- Narrowing: The meatus is frequently narrowed, which can impact the flow of urine.1
- Associated Curvature: The condition is often accompanied by a downward curvature of the penis beyond the meatus.1
Despite these structural changes, the posterior part of the urethra remains unaffected, meaning the muscle responsible for closing the urethra functions normally and urinary control is typically maintained. Most cases of hypospadias are correctable through surgery.1