The clitoral hood, also known as the prepuce, is a fold of skin that covers and protects a woman’s clitoris. The clitoris itself is a highly sensitive organ located at the top of the vulva, made up of erectile tissue and nerve endings. It is a key anatomical structure associated with sexual pleasure in individuals with female reproductive anatomy. The clitoral hood helps protect the sensitive clitoris from direct stimulation, friction, and external factors. The size, shape, and appearance of the clitoral hood can vary widely among individuals. Some women have a clitoral hood that partially or fully exposes the clitoris, while others have a hood that covers it more completely.
Clitoral hood hypertrophy refers to the enlargement or excessive growth of the clitoral hood, the fold of skin that covers the clitoris in female genitalia. This condition can cause the clitoral hood to become disproportionately larger than usual, either due to genetics, hormonal imbalances, or other underlying factors.
Clitoral hood hypertrophy can lead to various symptoms and concerns, such as:
It’s important to remember that every women’s body and desires are unique. If clitoral hood hypertrophy is causing physical discomfort or emotional distress contact the Intimate Wellness Institute for a consultation to determine your best course of action.
A clitoral hood reduction removes excess tissue from the skin folds that cover the clitoris. These skin folds are your clitoral hood. Other names for a clitoral hood reduction include: Clitoral hoodectomy, Clitoral hoodoplasty, Clitoral unhooding.
A clitoral hood reduction is an outpatient procedure that can be comfortably performed by Dr. Guerette in IWI’s office surgery center. Topical and local anesthesia are used to completely numb the treatment area and you are usually sedated for the procedure.
Dr. Guerette often performs a labia minoraplasty at the same time as a clitoral hood reduction. A labia minoraplasty sculpts the skin labia minora (small lips) to reshape them and improve how they fit within your labia majora (large lips) that surround your vagina. This gives the procedure a more even, symmetrical appearance.
Dr. Guerette uses advanced energy such as a laser or plasma blade to remove the excess tissue using the natural skin folds to prevent any noticeable scarring. The tissue is then closed with specialized knotless sutures to further minimize scarring and maximize post-operative comfort as the sutures absorb and do not need removal. Dr. Guerette takes great care not to disturb the tissue and nerves of your clitoris. This a is critical reason not to trust this procedure to a less experienced surgeon!
You may consider getting a clitoral hood reduction if you want to:
A clitoral hood reduction by itself doesn’t improve clitoral function, but the procedure exposes more of your clitoris, an extremely sensitive area. Having more of your clitoris available typically leads to heightened sexual sensation.
You can expect some mild pain, swelling and discomfort after the procedure and some brief activity limitations. The IWI team will give you detailed care instructions and be there for you during your entire recovery process.
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