Hypospadias and Undescended Testicles

Hypospadias is a common birth defect where the Reference urethra Opens New Window does not extend to the tip of the penis. Instead, the opening of the urethra is located somewhere along the underside of the penis, running along a soft groove. The scrotum may also be incompletely formed or divided into separate sacs or lobes. In many cases of hypospadias, particularly when the genitals are incompletely formed, the testicles do not descend.

Hypospadias can usually be corrected with reconstructive surgery, which is usually performed when the boy is between 6 months and 2 years of age. A boy who has hypospadias should not be circumcised because the foreskin may be needed during surgery.

Hypospadias may be caused by an intersex disorder, which is a condition that is caused by abnormalities in the Reference chromosomes Opens New Window or Reference endocrine system Opens New Window that can produce female characteristics in a male baby.

© 1995-2011, Healthwise, Incorporated. Healthwise, Healthwise for every health decision, and the Healthwise logo are trademarks of Healthwise, Incorporated.

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 Reference Terms of Use. Reference How this information was developed to help you make better health decisions.