Gerald R. Jerkins MD
Pediatric Urology Associates
of the MidSouth, P.C.
Memphis Tennessee

Meatal Stenosis

The meatus is the opening in the penis through which urine passes. Sometimes, particularly in circumcised boys, irritation of the tip of the penis causes scar tissue to form around the meatus, making it smaller. This narrowing, called meatal stenosis, may develop at any time during childhood but is most commonly found between ages 3 and 7. Meatal stenosis is relatively rare.

Boys who have meatal stenosis have a narrowed urinary stream. Urination may take longer, and they have difficulty completely emptying the bladder. Although rare, recurrent urinary tract infections can result from this condition. Meatal stenosis in girls is very rare.

Treatment of Meatal Stenosis
If you notice that your son's urinary stream is very small or narrow, or if he strains to urinate, or dribbles or sprays urine, discuss it with your pediatrician. Meatal stenosis is not a serious condition, but it should be evaluated to see if it needs to be corrected surgically. The operation is very minor and usually requires only local anesthesia. There will be some minor discomfort after the procedure, but this should disappear after a very short period of time.

Prevention of Meatal Stenosis
Decreasing the irritation caused by certain diapers, harsh detergents and wet, rough underclothing may help prevent the condition. Excerpted from Caring for Baby and Young Child: Birth to Age 5, Bantam 1999

© Copyright 2000 American Academy of Pediatrics