Frenulum breve

Frenulum breve is a medical condition affecting the male genitalia, specifically the frenulum of the penis. The frenulum is a small elastic band of tissue located under the penis' glans and connects the foreskin to the vernal mucosa. In cases of frenulum breve, this band is abnormally short, restricting the foreskin's movement and potentially causing pain, discomfort, or tearing during sexual activity or erections.

Causes and Diagnosis

The exact cause of frenulum breve is not well understood, but it is believed to be congenital (present at birth). It may not become apparent until after puberty when full sexual maturity is reached. Diagnosis is typically made through physical examination. A healthcare provider will assess the length and elasticity of the frenulum and the range of motion of the foreskin. In some cases, further tests may be conducted to rule out other conditions, such as phimosis or infections.

Symptoms

Individuals with frenulum breve may experience various symptoms, including:

• Pain during sexual intercourse or masturbation
• Difficulty retracting the foreskin when the penis is erect
• Tearing or bleeding of the frenulum during sexual activities
• Emotional or psychological distress due to the physical discomfort

Treatment

Treatment options for frenulum breve depend on the severity of the condition and the symptoms presented. They include:

• Stretching Exercises: Gentle stretching exercises may help increase the frenulum's elasticity. However, these should be done cautiously to avoid further injury.

• Topical Steroids: In some cases, topical steroids may be prescribed to help loosen the skin and increase frenulum elasticity.

• Frenuloplasty: A surgical procedure that involves making a small incision in the frenulum to lengthen it. This is often recommended for more severe cases.

• Circumcision: Although less common for frenulum breve alone, circumcision may be recommended in conjunction with frenuloplasty or if other foreskin issues are present.

Complications

If left untreated, frenulum breve can lead to complications such as chronic pain, bleeding, and the development of scar tissue. Additionally, it can cause psychological distress, affecting sexual relationships and self-esteem.

Prevention

There are no known preventive measures for frenulum breve, as it is usually a congenital condition. Awareness and early diagnosis can help manage symptoms and prevent complications.

See Also

• Phimosis
• Circumcision
• Penile anatomy

Resources

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Source: Data courtesy of the U.S. National Library of Medicine. Since the data might have changed, please query MeSH on Frenulum breve for any updates.

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