Penile Issues: Short Frenulum, Steroid Treatment, and Growth

Q: Penile Issues: Short Frenulum, Steroid Treatment, and Growth

Hello： Steroid therapy is likely ineffective or has minimal effect; by the age of 17, there is little chance for further development. <br>Wishing you good health.

Penile综合症问题

1.
Previously, I received treatment with a steroid ointment for phimosis, which successfully retracted the foreskin to the coronal sulcus.
However, my current issue is that the frenulum is caught at the coronal sulcus, and while there is no discomfort, the frenulum's length is just at the coronal sulcus.
Should this be considered a short frenulum?
2.
Is steroid therapy applicable for the situation described in question 1?
3.
What is the penile growth cycle, and at 17 years old, do I still have the potential for further growth? Thank you.

mizuzu, 10~19 year old female. Ask Date: 2018/02/18

Dr. Du Shixi reply Urology

Hello: Steroid therapy is likely ineffective or has minimal effect; by the age of 17, there is little chance for further development.
Wishing you good health.

Reply Date: 2018/02/18

More Info

Understanding penile issues, particularly those related to the frenulum and foreskin, is important for both physical comfort and psychological well-being. Let's address your questions one by one.

1. Frenulum Length and Its Implications: It sounds like you are experiencing a condition where the frenulum (the band of tissue connecting the underside of the penis to the foreskin) is short enough that it is taut at the coronal sulcus (the groove where the head of the penis meets the shaft). This situation can indeed be classified as a short frenulum. While you mentioned that you do not experience discomfort, a frenulum that is too short can sometimes lead to issues such as pain during erections or difficulty retracting the foreskin fully. If you are not experiencing any pain or functional issues, it may not require immediate intervention, but it is something to monitor.

2. Steroid Treatment for Short Frenulum: Topical steroid treatment can sometimes be used to help with conditions related to the skin, such as phimosis (tight foreskin) or other inflammatory conditions. However, for a short frenulum, the effectiveness of steroid treatment is less clear. Steroids may help to soften the tissue, but they are not typically a primary treatment for a short frenulum. If you are considering treatment options, it would be best to consult with a urologist or a healthcare provider specializing in male genital health. They may suggest other options, such as frenuloplasty, a minor surgical procedure to lengthen the frenulum if it becomes problematic.

3. Penile Growth and Development: The growth of the penis typically occurs during puberty, which can last from around ages 9 to 14, but growth can continue into the late teens. By the age of 17, many individuals have reached their full adult size, but there can be variations. If you are concerned about growth or development, it is important to remember that genetics plays a significant role, and there is a wide range of normal sizes. If you have specific concerns about your development, it would be advisable to speak with a healthcare provider who can assess your growth and development in the context of your overall health.

In summary, while you may have a short frenulum, if it is not causing discomfort or functional issues, it may not require treatment. Steroid therapy is not typically indicated for this condition, and penile growth can vary widely among individuals. If you have ongoing concerns, consulting with a urologist would provide you with tailored advice and potential treatment options.

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