Penile torsion is a condition that causes the penis to be twisted. It is often noticed by a healthcare provider during a routine checkup.
Mild penile torsion doesn't usually cause any problems, so treatment isn't needed. More severe penile torsion can be treated with surgery after a baby reaches 6 months old.
If recommended by your healthcare provider, make an appointment with a pediatric urologist (doctor who specializes in problems with the urinary tract). If you are planning on having your child circumcised, you should have your child see a pediatric urologist before the procedure.
What causes penile torsion? Penile torsion develops before a baby is born, while the skin and tissues of the penis are forming. Healthcare providers aren't sure why this happens. Sometimes it happens along with other conditions, such as hypospadias (where the opening for pee to come out is not in the usual spot).
What problems can penile torsion cause? Mild penile torsion usually doesn't cause any problems. Severe penile torsion can cause distress over the way the penis looks, an irregular urine (pee) stream, and possibly problems with sexual function.
Will penile torsion go away as my child grows? Mild penile torsion may become less noticeable as a child gets older. More severe penile torsion usually doesn't improve on its own, but surgery can help.
