Clitoral hypertrophy
Clitoral hypertrophy is a change in the size of the clitoris, that is, an enlargement of it and is considered to be mostly congenital disorder.
What are the causes of clitoral hypertrophy?
Clitoral enlargement can be seen at birth or later in life. If the change is seen at birth it is to be suspected of congenital adrenal hyperplasia, which results in increased androgen production, that will result in the ambivalent genitalia of the baby, such that neither male nor female can be precisely stated. The use of progesterone in pregnancy can also lead to clitoral hypertrophy. Polycystic ovaries are another cause of clitoral enlargement. The use of androgens, in bodybuilders, or testosterone can also lead to this condition.
When to see a doctor?
If your clitoris size does not decrease within a day, contact your doctor. It is also mandatory to contact your doctor if you feel any discomfort, pain or bleeding in the clitoris. But that doesn't mean you should tell your doctor only if there are any symptoms. If you are unhappy with the size of your clitoris or it affects your sex life, it would be a good idea to consult your doctor about the choice of treatment.
How is a hypertrophic clitoris diagnosed?
The diagnosis is made by a simple clinical examination of the genitals and patients medical history . An endocrinologist's examination is required. Sometimes it is necessary to perform additional analyzes such as karyotype and hormonal status to exclude sexual differentiation disorders.
How is a hypertrophic clitoris treated?
Reduction of the hypertrophic clitoris results in satisfactory results and restores the morphological form of the clitoris without impairing sexual function. The operation itself takes about an hour. The surgery is performed under general anesthesia and the patient is placed in a gynecological position. After the incision is made in the middle of the clitoris, the cavernous bodies are carefully identified and separated from the surrounding structures. Dissection of the cavernous bodies extends to the pubic bone after complete separation of the neurovascular loop. After removing most of the cavernous bodies, the glans is sutured to the rest of the cavernous bodies at the pubic bone. After surgery, a catheter and compression bandages are placed. The catheter is removed after 1-2 days. Possible complications of surgery are tissue swelling, spot bleeding, or scar formation. The patient can return to normal physical activities after 5 to 6 days from surgery.