Pediatric Micropenis

A micropenis is a penis that is smaller than normal. The normal length of a newborn boy's penis is 1.1 to 1.6 inches. The measurement around a newborn boy's penis (the circumference) is normally 0.35 to 0.5 inches. The penis is measured by carefully stretching it. The penis is measured from the tip to the base. A penis length of less than 0.75 inches is considered a micropenis.

Micropenis can happen on its own. But it often happens along with other disorders. It can happen if a child has a hormone disorder that causes an abnormal level of the hormones that affect the growth of the sex organs. This can include problems with the pituitary gland or the hypothalamus.

The most common sign of a micropenis is penis size in a baby that is less than 0.75 inches when stretched gently.

Having a small penis often doesn't cause any symptoms in a baby or child.

The healthcare provider will ask about your child’s symptoms and health history. They may also ask about your family’s health history. They will give your child a physical exam. The physical exam may include carefully measuring your child’s penis. Sometimes a baby who is chubby has a lot of belly fat. This can make the baby's penis look small. This is why it is important to measure the penis length carefully with your child's provider. Your child may also have blood tests or other testing to check for a hormone disorder.

Treatment will depend on your child’s symptoms, age and general health. It will also depend on how severe the condition is.

Your child may be referred to specialists. These may include:

• Pediatric urologist. This is a healthcare provider who focuses on problems with the urinary tract and the male genitals in children.
• Pediatric endocrinologist. This is a healthcare provider who focuses on problems with hormones in children.

Hormone therapy may be used for some children. These can help to cause penile growth. In some cases, your child may need surgery. Talk with your child’s healthcare providers about the risks, benefits and possible side effects of all treatments.

In some cases, a man with micropenis may have a low sperm count. This can lead to infertility or decreased fertility.

Call the healthcare provider if your child has:

• Symptoms that don’t get better, or get worse
• New symptoms