Epispadias is a birth defect in which the urethra opens on the top side of the penis instead of at the tip. The higher the opening, the more it can change how urine leaves the body.
The main sign is an off-target stream. Urine sprays upward or fans out in a wide arc, making it hard to aim into a toilet.
Spraying gets worse when the bladder is full. The stream can split into two or even drip down the shaft after voiding is finished.
The penis may look short or bent upward, especially during an erection, because the foreskin is missing underneath and pulls the shaft.
If the opening is near the base, urine can leak during coughing or exercise, mimicking stress incontinence.
Some boys need to sit to void, and the underwear often has wet spots even after they “shake” thoroughly.
| Symptom | What You See | Quick Check |
|---|---|---|
| Stream | Upward spray, wide arc | Watch toilet aim |
| Split | Two streams or drip | After full bladder |
| Penis | Short, bent up | Erection look |
| Leak | Drip with cough | Stand test |
| Sit | Must sit to pee | Note position |
| Wet | Spots after shake | Check briefs |