Overview
Frenulum breve is a condition where the skin fold (frenulum) connecting the penis head to the foreskin is too short or tight, causing pain or discomfort, especially during erections. Treatment varies from conservative care to surgery, depending on severity.
Definition and Function
- Frenulum breve occurs when the frenulum is too short or tight, limiting foreskin movement.
- The frenulum helps retract the foreskin over the penis head.
Symptoms
- Pain or discomfort in the penis during erections.
- Pain during masturbation or intercourse.
- Tearing or bleeding beneath the penis head.
- Difficulty retracting the foreskin.
- May contribute to premature ejaculation but does not reduce sensation.
Causes and Associated Conditions
- Most cases are present at birth (congenital).
- Can result from infection, inflammation, injury, or a tight foreskin (phimosis).
- Associated conditions include balanitis, balanoposthitis, STIs, and certain skin diseases.
Diagnosis
- Diagnosis is based on symptoms and a physical exam by a healthcare provider.
Treatment and Management
- Mild cases may improve with gentle stretching and steroid creams.
- Severe or persistent cases may require surgical excision (frenulectomy), typically an outpatient procedure.
- Recovery from surgery usually takes 2–3 days of discomfort, with complete healing in 10 days (children) or 4–6 weeks (adults).
- Stretching should only be done under medical supervision to avoid tearing.
- Torn frenulum should be cared for with pain relief, hygiene, and avoiding sexual activity until healed.
Prognosis and Recovery
- Prognosis is good with proper diagnosis and treatment; surgery has a high success rate.
- Sexual activity should be avoided for 4–6 weeks after surgery to allow full healing.
Prevention
- Circumcision at birth eliminates risk.
- Good hygiene, safe sex practices, and protection during sports may reduce risk of injury or infection leading to frenulum breve.
Additional Information
- Cutting the frenulum at home is strongly discouraged due to risk of complications.
- Frenulum breve differs from phimosis, which involves a tight foreskin but not a short frenulum.
Recommendations / Advice
- Seek medical advice if experiencing symptoms of frenulum breve.
- Attempt home stretching or treatments only under healthcare provider supervision.
- Do not attempt self-surgery; consult a professional for persistent issues.