Undescended Testicle in Children: Causes, Symptoms, and Treatment

An undescended testicle in children is a common condition that often worries parents, especially when they notice one or both testicles missing from scrotum.

Many parents ask questions like:

How do I know if my child has an undescended testicle?
Can an undescended testicle come down on its own?
Can undescended testicles be treated without surgery?

What is the best age for surgery?

In this article, we will cover in detail the causes, symptoms, treatment options, and complications of undescended testicles, as well as their impact on fertility.

What Is an Undescended Testicle?

Before birth, the testicles develop inside the abdomen of a male fetus. Shortly before delivery, they move through the inguinal canal and descend into the scrotum. Normally, this process is completed before birth.

However, in some babies, especially those born prematurely, one or both testicles fail to descend and remain in the abdomen or groin. This condition is called undescended testicle or cryptorchidism.

In some cases, the testicle may descend naturally within the first six months of life. If not, medical intervention or surgery may be required to ensure the testicle is in its proper position.

Causes of Undescended Testicle in Children

The exact cause is unknown, but several factors may increase the risk:

Premature birth
Low birth weight
Hormonal or genetic disorders
Family history of the condition

How Do I Know If My Child Has an Undescended Testicle?

Undescended testicles usually do not cause pain or urinary problems, but there are signs you can look for:

The scrotum appears small or underdeveloped
If only one testicle is undescended, the scrotum may look uneven
A small bulge in the groin area if the testicle is located there

Sometimes the testicle appears and disappears, especially when the child is cold or upset, this is called a retractile testicle, which usually does not require surgery

If you notice any of these signs, consult a pediatrician for proper diagnosis and timely treatment. Add a link to “Pediatrician”, that take the audience to the Pediatric consultant's inner page

When Should You See a doctor?

Doctors usually detect undescended testicles during a newborn’s physical exam. If your child has this condition, ask about follow-up visits. If the testicle has not descended by 3–4 months, it is unlikely to correct itself.

Older children may develop what appears to be a missing testicle later in life. This could indicate:

Retractile Testicle: Moves between the scrotum and groin and can be easily repositioned by the doctor.
Ascending Testicle: Was in the correct position but moved back to the groin and cannot be repositioned easily.

Seek medical advice immediately if you notice any changes in your child’s genital area.

Complications of Untreated Undescended Testicle

Leaving the condition untreated can lead to serious health issues:

Fertility Problems: High abdominal temperature can damage sperm production, reducing future fertility.

Increased Risk of Testicular Cancer: Men with undescended testicles are more likely to develop testicular cancer, especially if both testicles are affected.

Testicular Torsion: A medical emergency requiring immediate surgery to prevent loss of the testicle.

Inguinal Hernia: Part of the intestine may push into the groin through a weak spot in the abdominal muscles, causing a painful bulge. Comment

Delayed Puberty: In some cases, undescended testicles can delay puberty signs.

Psychological Impact: May affect body image and self-confidence during adolescence.

Treatment for Undescended Testicle

If the testicle does not descend naturally within six months, medical intervention is necessary.

Observation and Monitoring

In newborns, doctors may monitor for up to 3 months as the testicle may descend on its own.

Hormonal Therapy

Hormone injections were once used to stimulate descent, but this method is now rarely recommended due to limited effectiveness compared to surgery.

Surgery (Orchiopexy)

The most effective treatment is surgery to move the testicle into the scrotum and secure it.

Procedure:
- A small incision is made in the groin or abdomen
- The spermatic cord is freed, and the testicle is placed in the scrotum
- Surgery is performed under general anesthesia and usually takes less than an hour
- Most children go home the same day
Ideal Timing:
- Surgery should be done between 6 and 18 months to reduce risks of infertility and cancer.

Laparoscopic Surgery

Used when the testicle is inside the abdomen. The surgeon may correct the position during the same procedure or later if needed.

Why Choose Mouwasat Hospital for Pediatric Surgery?

The Pediatric Surgery Department at Mouwasat Hospital offers comprehensive care for infants, children, and adolescents, including undescended testicle surgery. Key advantages include:

Expert Team: Board-certified pediatric surgeons
Advanced Techniques: Minimally invasive procedures for faster recovery
Child-Safe Anesthesia: Specialized protocols for pediatric patients
Child-Friendly Environment: Psychological and developmental support programs
Post-Surgery Care: Pain management and monitoring in pediatric intensive care units
Parent Education: Guidance throughout the treatment journey
Therapeutic Nutrition: Support for optimal recovery and growth

These features make Mouwasat Hospital a trusted choice for safe and effective pediatric surgeries.

Medical Disclaimer

This article is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice. Always consult a pediatrician for diagnosis and treatment.