Undescended Testicle – Symptoms and Causes
What Is an Undescended Testicle?
An undescended testicle, also called cryptorchidism, occurs when a testicle fails to move down into the scrotum before birth. This condition typically affects one testicle, though both testicles can be undescended in some cases.
The scrotum is the skin pouch located below the penis where testicles normally reside.
This condition appears more frequently in babies born prematurely compared to those born at full term. Many undescended testicles will move into the proper position naturally within the first few months after birth.
If the testicle doesn’t descend on its own, medical intervention is available. Doctors can perform surgery to bring the testicle down into the scrotum. This procedure helps ensure proper development and function of the testicle.
Signs and Symptoms
The main sign of an undescended testicle is not being able to see or feel a testicle in the scrotum. Testicles develop in the lower belly of a baby before birth.
In the final months of pregnancy, they normally move down through a tube in the groin (the inguinal canal) and into the scrotum. When a testicle is undescended, this movement stops or gets delayed.
When Medical Care Is Needed
Most undescended testicles are found during a baby’s first checkup after birth. If your baby has this condition, ask the doctor how often they should be checked.
If the testicle hasn’t moved into place by 3-4 months of age, it likely won’t fix itself without help.
Getting treatment early, while your child is still a baby, may reduce risks of future health problems, including testicular cancer and fertility problems.
Some older boys who had normal testicles at birth might seem to have a missing testicle later. This could be due to:
Retractile Testicle
- Moves back and forth between scrotum and groin
- Can usually be guided into the scrotum during an exam
- Caused by a normal muscle reflex
Ascending Testicle (Also Called Acquired Undescended Testicle)
- Has moved back up into the groin
- Cannot be easily guided into the scrotum by hand
It’s important to contact your child’s healthcare provider if you notice any changes in your child’s genital area or have concerns about development.
Causes
The specific reason for an undescended testicle remains unknown. Several factors likely contribute together:
- Genetic Factors
- Maternal Health During Pregnancy
- Hormonal Disruptions
- Nerve Development Issues
These elements may interfere with the normal processes that guide testicle development and movement. When these systems don’t work properly, one or both testicles might not descend into the scrotum as expected.
Risk Factors
Several factors may increase a baby’s chance of having an undescended testicle:
- Birth Factors: Babies born too early or with low birth weight.
- Family History: Having relatives with the same condition.
- Health Conditions: Cerebral palsy or abdominal wall problems.
- Maternal Health Issues: Pre-existing or gestational diabetes
-
Pregnancy Exposures:
- Alcohol consumption
- Cigarette smoke (direct or secondhand)
- Certain pesticides
Doctors consider these factors when evaluating newborn boys.
Health Issues
Men with undescended testicles face several potential health problems. Testicles need to be slightly cooler than normal body temperature to function properly. This is why they normally reside in the scrotum.
Increased Cancer Risk
Men with a history of undescended testicles have a higher chance of developing testicular cancer. This risk is particularly elevated when:
- The undescended testicle was located in the abdomen rather than the groin
- Both testicles were undescended instead of just one
Surgical correction may reduce this risk, but it doesn’t eliminate it completely.
Fertility Challenges
Fertility problems occur more frequently in men who had undescended testicles. The ability to father children may be compromised, especially if the condition remained untreated for an extended period.
Additional Complications
Several other health issues are linked to undescended testicles:
Testicular Torsion – This is a painful twisting of the spermatic cord that cuts off blood supply to the testicle. Without prompt treatment, the testicle may die and require removal.
Physical Injury: A testicle positioned in the groin area can suffer damage from pressure against the pubic bone.
Inguinal Hernia – This occurs when part of the intestine pushes through a weak spot in the abdominal wall, creating a painful bulge in the groin area.
Regular medical check-ups are important for men with a history of undescended testicles to monitor for these potential complications. Self-examinations can also help detect problems early.
