Son's penis
Hello Doctor, my son is almost 3 years old.
Since birth, his penis has been curved to the left.
Now, when he urinates, his penis becomes longer and the middle to lower section bends to the left at about a 30-degree angle.
I'm really worried if there is an issue! Is this normal? Thank you for your response!
Niming, 30~39 year old female. Ask Date: 2008/09/08
Dr. Xiao Kaiwen reply Pediatrics
If a newborn's penis is curved ventrally, it is important to check for the presence of hypospadias.
If hypospadias is not present, many males may have varying degrees of curvature (especially during erection).
The direction and degree of curvature can differ from person to person; some may curve upward, some downward, some to the left, and some to the right.
Penile curvature does not affect urination or cause infertility.
A small curvature angle is generally not a concern, but if the curvature is significant enough to potentially impact psychological well-being or sexual intercourse in the future, a minor surgical intervention may be considered.
Consultation with pediatric surgery or urology is recommended.
Reply Date: 2008/09/08
More Info
When it comes to understanding curved penises in young boys, it is important to recognize that some degree of curvature can be normal and does not necessarily indicate a medical issue. In your case, your son is almost three years old and has had a leftward curvature since birth, which is not uncommon. Many boys may exhibit some curvature of the penis, and this can be due to a variety of factors, including the natural development of the penis, the way it is formed in utero, or even how the tissues grow as the child matures.
In general, a curvature of up to 30 degrees is often considered normal, especially in young children. As boys grow, their bodies undergo significant changes, including the development of the penis. It is not unusual for the penis to appear curved during this developmental phase. In many cases, the curvature may correct itself as the child grows older and undergoes puberty, when hormonal changes and growth spurts can lead to more uniform development of the genitalia.
However, there are certain signs that may warrant further evaluation by a healthcare professional. If the curvature is accompanied by pain during urination, difficulty achieving an erection (which is not typically a concern in very young boys), or if the curvature becomes more pronounced over time, it may be advisable to consult a pediatric urologist. They can assess whether the curvature is a result of a condition such as Peyronie's disease, which is characterized by fibrous scar tissue that can cause abnormal curvature, though this is rare in young children.
In your situation, since your son is still very young, it is likely that the curvature is not a cause for concern. However, it is always best to monitor any changes and consult with a pediatrician if you have ongoing worries. They can provide reassurance and guidance on what is typical for boys at different developmental stages.
In summary, a slight curvature of the penis in young boys is often normal and may not require any treatment. As your son grows, it is important to keep an eye on any changes and consult a healthcare provider if you notice any concerning symptoms. Regular check-ups with a pediatrician can also help ensure that your child's development is on track and address any questions or concerns you may have.
Similar Q&A
Concerns About Penile Deformities and Development in Teenagers
Repeatedly squeezing the penis forcefully while it is not erect, resulting in noticeable indentations and slight curvature in the circled area, may raise concerns about potential effects on development. At 17 years old, it is understandable to worry about any impact on growth and...
Dr. Du Shixi reply Urology
Hello: If the curvature does not affect sexual activity, surgical treatment is not necessary. Just take good care of yourself. Wishing you good health.[Read More] Concerns About Penile Deformities and Development in Teenagers
Understanding Penile Curvature and Semen Analysis in Young Men
It is not uncommon for an erection to have a slight curve, and a deviation of 30 to 45 degrees to the left can be considered normal. This curvature can be due to natural anatomical variations, and as long as it is not accompanied by pain or difficulty during sexual activity, it i...
Dr. Xu Weikai reply Urology
Hello, a curvature of 30-45 degrees is indeed more common. If it causes bending, it may lead to discomfort during intercourse. You can bring photos of the erection or a camera to consult with a urologist. If there are any unclear points, feel free to ask again, and we can discuss...[Read More] Understanding Penile Curvature and Semen Analysis in Young Men
Understanding Erectile Issues in Young Men: When to Seek Medical Advice
Hello, when my younger brother tries to achieve an erection, it cannot reach a horizontal position and instead points down at a 45-degree angle. It has become firm but he cannot lift it. Is this considered erectile dysfunction? Is this normal for a young person? He has not had se...
Dr. Cai Bingkun reply Urology
In a normal male, an erect penis typically points forward and upward, and one can even feel the pulsation of the penile artery. However, some individuals may experience curvature to the left, right, or downward, which is known as congenital penile curvature (acquired curvature ma...[Read More] Understanding Erectile Issues in Young Men: When to Seek Medical Advice
Understanding Penile Curvature: When to Seek Treatment and Surgery
I have been troubled by this issue for a long time: my penis is slightly curved (to the left and upward). I don't think it's congenital; it might be due to masturbation and wearing tight jeans. Will this affect my sex life and require surgical correction? I heard that s...
Dr. Liu Jianting reply Urology
Indeed, there are quite a few issues, and it’s clear that you care about your health. A slight curvature of the penis is generally not a problem as long as it does not affect sexual intercourse when erect. If the foreskin covers the glans during an erection, it may indicate phimo...[Read More] Understanding Penile Curvature: When to Seek Treatment and Surgery
Related FAQ
(Pediatrics)
Anus(Pediatrics)
Ureter(Pediatrics)
Puberty(Pediatrics)
Hypospadias(Urology)
Chest(Pediatrics)
Bedwetting(Pediatrics)
Tongue(Pediatrics)
Abdomen(Pediatrics)
Glans Penis(Dermatology)