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Urology  (Expert Forum)
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Dilated urethral opening
Answered by
Kevin Pho, MD - Internal Medicine
Kevin, M.D. Boston - MA
Questions in the Urology forum are answered by Dr. Stephen Liroff, affiliated with the Henry Ford Hospital. Topics covered include benign prostate disease, penis curvature, cystisis, kidney stones, pediatric urology, prostate, sexual dysfunction, urinary tract infections (UTI), and urological cancers.

Dilated urethral opening

by jonps, Jun 25, 2007 12:00AM
Over the period of about 2 years I noticed a gradual "stretching" or "widening" of my urethral opening.  I soon became concerned about this because it was causing some discomfort, so I decided to consult my GP.

Following a couple more consultations with my female GP I was then referred to a urologist.  I explained my problem to the urologist.  He examined the ventral side of my penis and told me that the urethral opening, although slightly stretched, still appeared normal.  He suggested I refrain from sexual intercourse for a period of about a month to allow any irritation to heal.  I followed his advice however soon after having sexual intercourse again the irritation returned and the stretching seemed to continue.

I returned to a male GP at the same practice.  He considered the comments made by the urologist and examined my penis for himself.  He said that the "stretching" most likely allowed increased "mobility" during intercourse and I should therefore not be concerned about it.

Its now a few months since I last consulted any GP and the widening still does not seem to be subsiding, although the discomfort has ceased.  The urethral opening only appears to be gradually widening but it continues nonetheless.

I would really appreciate some help with my problem.  I am not entirely confident that the advice I have been given is correct or even if there is any real reason to be concerned here?

by Kevin Pho, MD, Jun 26, 2007 12:00AM
Difficult to say without evaluation.

There can be normal anatomic variation regarding to the size of the urethral opening.  Various types of skin conditions (i.e. dermatitis or other dermatological diseases) and infections can also lead to irritation.  Obtaining a urinalysis can be considered if the latter is suspected.

If there continues to be an unclear diagnosis, you can consider a referral to an academic medical center where more uncommon diseases are seen and treated.

Followup with your personal physician is essential.

This answer is not intended as and does not substitute for medical advice - the information presented is for patient education only. Please see your personal physician for further evaluation of your individual case.

Kevin, M.D.
kevinmd_
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