What should I do if my child has hypospadias?

Patient's question:

Congenital hypospadias without obvious symptoms

Doctor's answer:

Surgical correction is the only effective method. Since a short urethra can cause penile curvature, the most appropriate time for surgery in children is between six months and one year.
The first surgery should not be delayed beyond the age of three. The earlier the surgery is performed, the less impact it will have on reproductive function, and it can also help avoid potential feelings of inferiority in the child. As the child grows older, hypospadias can cause significant psychological distress. For example, due to the abnormal location of the urethral opening and penile curvature, the child may not be able to urinate standing up like a normal boy and must instead adopt a squatting or sitting position. This can lead to ridicule from peers, causing the child to develop feelings of inferiority.
Currently, there are multiple methods available for surgical correction, and the choice can be based on the child's specific condition. After successful surgery, except for severely affected children (those with a low urethral meatus position and a small penis), most children will have almost no difference in pubertal development and sexual function compared to the general population.