Urologenzentrum Wien - Frenulum Breve: Patient mit Schmerzen im Genitalbereich bei einem Arztgespräch.

Short frenulum

Frenulum breve refers to a shortened frenulum of the foreskin, which leads to limitations in retracting the foreskin and often causes pain or tension during sexual intercourse. This malformation can impair sexual well-being and, in severe cases, lead to injuries of the frenulum.

Causes of Frenulum breve

Frenulum breve is in most cases congenital, but it can also be caused by scarring after injuries or inflammation of the foreskin, as well as by trauma or improper manipulation of the frenulum.

Symptoms of frenulum breve

  • Pain or discomfort when retracting the foreskin
  • Sensation of tightness during intercourse or erections
  • Recurring tears or injuries to the frenulum
  • Bleeding from the frenulum after sexual contact

Diagnosis of Frenulum breve

The diagnosis is usually made through a physical examination. The doctor examines the mobility of the foreskin and checks whether the frenulum causes tension or tears when the foreskin is retracted. In some cases, additional tests are conducted to ensure that there are no other anatomical problems.

Treatment options for frenulum breve

  • Frenulotomy: A minor surgical procedure in which the shortened frenulum is cut to improve the mobility of the foreskin and relieve feelings of tension. This procedure is usually performed under local anesthesia.
  • Frenuloplasty: In more severe cases, a frenuloplasty is performed, where the frenulum is surgically lengthened or reconstructed.
  • Conservative treatment: For mild symptoms, lubricating creams or gels can be used to relieve tension, although this does not provide a long-term solution.

Preventive measures for frenulum breve

Since a short frenulum is usually congenital, there are no specific preventive measures. However, regular medical check-ups and careful care of the foreskin area can help avoid possible complications and reduce the risk of injuries.


Common Patient Questions about Frenulum Breve

A frenulum breve, also known as a short frenulum, is a too-short band on the underside of the glans that makes it difficult to fully retract the foreskin. It can cause tension and pain during an erection, and sometimes a pulling or slight tearing of the band can be felt.

In some cases, stretching exercises or special creams that make the tissue more elastic can help alleviate the condition. However, these methods are usually only of limited effectiveness and do not offer a permanent solution. In cases of persistent discomfort, surgery is often required.

A frenulum breve can cause pain during erection, intercourse, and occasionally even at rest. Common complaints include an uncomfortable feeling of tension and the risk of tears or bleeding in the frenulum area. This can impair sexual function and well-being.

For the treatment of a frenulum breve, there are two main surgical techniques: frenulotomy, where the band is incised and lengthened, and frenectomy, where the band is completely removed. Both procedures are generally minimally invasive and offer a permanent solution to the problem.

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