DefinitionHypospadias is a somewhat common birth (congenital) defect in which the opening of the urethra is on the underside, rather than at the end, of the penis.See also: EpispadiasCauses, incidence, and risk factorsHypospadias affects up to 4 in 1,000 newborn boys.Some cases are passed down through families. In other cases the cause is unknown.SymptomsThe condition varies in severity. In most cases, the opening of the urethra is located near the tip of the penis on the underside. More severe forms of hypospadias occur when the opening is at the midshaft or base of the penis. Occasionally, the opening is located in or behind the scrotum.Males with this condition often have a downward curve (chordee) of the penis during an erection. (Erections are common with infant boys.)Other symptoms i