Frenulum breve is a condition in which the frenulum, the small fold of skin under the penis that connects the foreskin to the glans, is short and tight. This can cause the foreskin to tighten, tear the frenulum and restrict movement.
Causes of Frenulum Breve
A variety of factors can cause frenulum breve. It may be present from birth, which suggests a genetic or developmental origin.
In other cases, the condition can develop later in life due to tearing or scarring.
Possible acquired causes include injury to the penis, inflammation of the foreskin or glans like BXO, or repeated irritation of the affected area.
Symptoms of Frenulum Breve
The symptoms of frenulum breve can vary in severity. Common signs include:
- Pain or discomfort during erections or sexual activity due to the tight frenulum causing restriction and loss of erection temporarily
- Difficulty retracting the foreskin fully, which may lead to hygiene issues if not appropriately managed.
- In some cases, the frenulum may tear during intercourse, resulting in bleeding and pain.
What’s the Difference Between Frenulum Breve and Phimosis?
It’s important to distinguish between frenulum breve and phimosis as they involve different parts of the penis and have distinct symptoms:
- Frenulum Breve: This specifically involves a short frenulum (the small fold of skin under the penis connecting the foreskin to the glans), causing restricted movement of the foreskin and potential pain during erections or sexual activity.
- Phimosis: This refers to a tight foreskin that cannot be retracted from the glans, often due to scarring like BXO, inflammation, or natural causes. It primarily affects the ability to retract the foreskin rather than the movement during erections.
Both conditions may require different treatment approaches, so an accurate diagnosis is crucial.
Treatment for Frenulum Breve
Treatment for frenulum breve depends on the severity of symptoms. Mild cases may not require intervention unless the condition causes discomfort or pain.
Possible treatment options include:
- Steroid creams: These can help to loosen the frenulum and improve flexibility in some cases.
- Frenuloplasty: A surgical procedure under local anaesthetic injection to lengthen the frenulum. This can provide immediate relief from symptoms.
- Circumcision: In some cases where other treatments are not suitable or effective because of phimosis or scarring, circumcision may be considered. This involves the removal of the foreskin and is a more permanent solution.
It is important to discuss the most appropriate treatment option with our doctors based on individual circumstances and the impact of the condition on daily life.
Seeking a Specialist
If you are experiencing symptoms of frenulum breve, such as pain during erections or discomfort during sexual activity, it is advisable to consult our doctors for an accurate diagnosis and appropriate treatment plan.
Our clinic specialises in conditions affecting the frenulum and foreskin and can provide expert care.
Our team of experienced doctors will conduct a thorough examination and may recommend treatments ranging from topical creams to surgical procedures like circumcision or frenuloplasty, depending on the severity of your frenulum breve.
Do not hesitate to contact to schedule an appointment and take the first step toward managing this condition effectively.