Undescended testicles (UDTs), also known as cryptorchidism, occur when one or both of a baby boy’s testicles fail to move into the scrotum before birth. Normally, the testicles form in the abdomen and descend into the scrotum during the final months of fetal development. When this doesn’t happen, the testicle may remain in the abdomen, groin, or another abnormal location.
This condition is relatively common, especially in premature infants, affecting about 3% of full-term and up to 30% of preterm male newborns. In most cases, testicles that are undescended at birth will move into the scrotum naturally within the first 6 months of life. If the testicle has not descended by the time a child is 6 months old, it is unlikely to descend on its own and medical intervention is recommended.
When Should I Have My Son Evaluated by a Urologist?
You should have your son evaluated by a pediatric urologist if:
- One or both testicles have not descended by 6 months of age
- The testicle was previously in the scrotum but is now no longer palpable (retractile vs. ascending testicle)
- You or your pediatrician are unsure about the location or presence of a testicle during regular checkups
Early evaluation allows for timely diagnosis and treatment, reducing future health risks.
Risks Associated with Undescended Testicles
There are risks associated with undescended testicles. If left untreated, they can lead to serious long-term complications:
Infertility
- Proper testicular development and sperm production require the lower temperature environment of the scrotum.
- Boys with untreated UDTs, especially bilateral cases (both testicles undescended), have a significantly higher risk of reduced fertility in adulthood.
Testicular Cancer
- Men with a history of UDTs have an increased risk of developing testicular cancer, even if the testicle is surgically corrected.
- Early treatment – before 1 year of age -can reduce this risk.
- Hernia: A UDT is often associated with an inguinal hernia that may require surgical repair.
- Testicular torsion: The risk of the testicle twisting, cutting off blood supply, is higher in undescended testicles.
- Psychosocial issues: Concerns about appearance and body image may arise if the condition remains untreated into later childhood or adolescence.
Treatment for Undescended Testicles in Infants
The most common treatment is orchiopexy, a short surgical procedure to help move the testicle into the scrotum. It is typically recommended between 6 and 18 months of age, but ideally before the child turns 1.
If you have any concerns about your son’s development, don’t hesitate to speak with your pediatrician or schedule a urology consultation with Dr. Joe Gleason at the Conrad Pearson Clinic. He is a sought-after expert and specialty trained Pediatric Urologist in the Memphis area.
