Psychological outcome, sexuality, and health-related quality of life (HRQoL) in men with uncorrected hypospadias. An exploratory study

Our study indicates that some men with uncorrected distal hypospadias adapt well to their penile condition regarding their sexuality, HRQoL and voiding function. This indicates that not all men with uncorrected hypospadias suffer a psychological burden. However, our study also showed that men with uncorrected hypospadias had a lower genital self-perception and were more often bothered by their penile appearance compared to men without hypospadias. Therefore, delaying surgery of distal hypospadias beyond early childhood, until the affected individuals can give informed consent, may be a valid option for some individuals, particularly those with mild forms of distal hypospadias. The decision for or against surgery in early childhood must be considered carefully, and families must be supported in making their individual choices. This study has important limitations: The small group of unoperated men who volunteered to participate may be a selection of men who cope particularly well with their condition and therefore results may not be representative.