Frenulum breve - short frenulum
Understanding Frenulum Breve: Causes, Symptoms, and Treatment
Introduction
Frenulum breve is a condition that affects men, causing discomfort and potential challenges in their sexual activities. This blog will discuss what frenulum breve is, explore its causes, identify symptoms, and discuss available treatment options.
What is Frenulum Breve?
The frenulum is a small band of tissue located on the underside of the penis, connecting the glans to the foreskin. In individuals with frenulum breve, this band is shorter than usual, restricting the movement of the foreskin. This condition can lead to pain, tearing, and difficulty retracting the foreskin during activities such as sexual intercourse or masturbation.
Causes
Frenulum breve can be caused by various factors, including congenital conditions where the frenulum is naturally shorter than average. Additionally, trauma, injury or scaring (BXO) to the genital area may contribute to the development of frenulum breve. Understanding the underlying cause is crucial for determining the most appropriate treatment.
Symptoms
Common symptoms of frenulum breve include pain during sexual activity, difficulty retracting the foreskin and tearing of the frenulum. Individuals experiencing these symptoms should seek medical advice to diagnose the condition and explore suitable treatment options properly.
Treatment Options
1. Topical Steroids: In some cases, topical steroids may be prescribed to reduce inflammation and promote frenulum stretching. This conservative approach is often recommended initially.
2. Stretching Exercises: Gentle stretching exercises may be suggested to elongate the frenulum gradually. It's essential to follow medical guidance to avoid injury and ensure the effectiveness of these exercises.
3. Frenuloplasty: In more severe cases, a surgical procedure known as frenuloplasty may be recommended. This involves making a small incision in the frenulum to release tension with stitches and sealing it with glue, allowing for increased mobility.
4. Circumcision: In cases with tight foreskin or when other treatments are unsuccessful, circumcision – the surgical removal of the foreskin – may be considered as a last resort. However, this is a significant decision that should be thoroughly discussed with our urologist.
Conclusion
Frenulum breve is a condition that can impact the quality of life for affected individuals. Seeking medical advice is crucial to determine the most appropriate treatment plan based on the severity of the condition. With various treatment options available, individuals experiencing symptoms of frenulum breve can find relief and regain comfort in intimate situations. Always consult an experienced consultant urologist for personalised advice tailored to your problem.