Undescended testicles

In most boys the testicles have moved into their normal position in the scrotum by the time of birth. In some boys the testicles may take longer to move down into the scrotum. This is more common in premature babies. Other boys may have testicles that have moved down into the scrotum but at a later stage move back up (so called retractile or ascending testicles).

If the testicles have not moved down to the scrotum by 6 months of age they are less likely to do so and may require surgical correction. This operation is called an orchidopexy.

Ideally surgery should be performed before or at 1 years old. This allows the testicles the most chance of developing normally into adulthood.

If your son's testicles are not seen/felt in his scrotum it is important to consult your doctor.

Most testicles that are not in the scrotum will need to be repaired surgically. The type of operation depends on if the testicles can be felt above the scrotum or not. Dr Stevens will assess your child and advise on what type of surgery is needed. Most cases can be repaired with a small incision in the groin and scrotum. Some will however require laparoscopic (key-hole) surgery. Rarely will your child need more than 1 operation to bring the testicles into the scrotum.

Surgery is not always needed for retractile testicles but your child will need close follow up into puberty to ensure that the testicles don't remain above the scrotum.