About undescended testicles

An undescended testicle is a testicle that doesn’t sit fully within the scrotum. Instead, it’s in the groin or lower abdomen. This condition can happen to one or both testicles.

Sometimes testicles can be undescended at birth. When babies are developing in the womb, the testicles (testes) form in the abdomen. In the last few months of development, the testicles usually move down into the scrotum. But sometimes one or both testicles don’t move down by the time babies are born. If testicles are undescended at birth, they might move down by themselves within the first 6 months of life. But sometimes this doesn’t happen either.

Sometimes the testicles are in the scrotum at birth but are pulled up into the groin or abdomen at around 4-10 years of age. This happens because the cord that attaches the testicle to the abdomen doesn’t grow at the same rate as the child.

Undescended testicles can increase the risk of several health issues including testicular twisting, a groin hernia, trauma, reduced fertility and testicular cancer.

An undescended testicle is different from a retractile testicle. A retractile testicle is one that sits where it should in the scrotum but pulls up when your child is cold, embarrassed or upset. It comes down again when your child is warm or has calmed down. Although retractile testicles are common, it’s a good idea to have your GP check it out.

Symptoms of an undescended testicle

The main symptom of undescended testicles is that you can’t see or feel one or both testicles in the scrotum.

Undescended testicles don’t cause any pain.

Every now and then when you’re bathing your baby or changing a nappy, check that you can see and feel both testicles in the scrotum. Your GP will also check them during routine check-ups. It’s also a good idea to encourage older children to check themselves.

Medical help: when to get it for children with undescended testicles

If you think your child has an undescended testicle, you need to see your GP. Usually the GP will be able to find the testicle during a physical examination.

Your GP might refer your child to a surgeon.

Very occasionally, the GP or surgeon might ask for an ultrasound, an MRI or other tests.

Treatment for undescended testicles

If your child’s testicle hasn’t descended by 6 months after birth, your child might need surgery.

This surgery brings the testicle down into the scrotum. It’s called an orchidopexy and is usually done at 6-12 months of age. It prevents long-term damage to the testicles and reduces the risk of the other problems.

If your child develops an undescended testicle in later childhood or adolescence, surgery might be needed at that stage.