Undescended testicle and its treatment

In most cases, correction and descent of the testicles occurs during the first 3-6 months of the child's development.

If the testicles have not descended into the scrotum, treatment is necessary by 6 months of age.

Boys who have undescended testicles at birth should have a testicular examination every month during development. They should have regular check-ups because of the increased risk of cancer.

Retractable testicles move inwards from the scrotum and do not remain descended.

This type of moving testicle needs to be monitored. As they age and grow, they usually settle permanently in the scrotum. Treatment is only necessary if they do not descend naturally.

Treatment of undescended testicles

Treatment reduces the risk of complications in life, such as infertility and testicular cancer.

Hormonal treatment

Hormonal treatment is rarely used and only when the testicles are close to the scrotum.

Injections of hCG (human chorionic gonadotropin), which is normally secreted in women after a fertilized egg has nested in the uterus. It is produced only during pregnancy.

This hormone encourages the testicles to descend into the scrotum as they normally would while still developing in the womb.

Surgical treatment

Surgical treatment is the most common form of treatment for a palpable testicle that is not located in the scrotum.

The treatment involves a simple surgical procedure called orchidopexy. This involves moving the testicles into the scrotum to the correct place.

This is best done between the age of 6 months and 18 months. This will reduce the risk of fertility problems and testicular cancer.

The operation has a high success rate. Most of those who have the operation subsequently develop normal testicles with healthy sperm production.