Undescended Testicle or Cryptorchidism

An undescended testicle (cryptorchidism) is generally detected in newborn boys when a testicle hasn't moved into its standard position before birth. Generally, just one testicle is affected, but about 10% of the time, both testicles are undescended.

An undescended testicle is uncommon but common among premature newborn boys.

The majority of the time, the undescended testicle will move into the proper position on its own within the first few months. However, if your son has an undescended testicle that doesn't correct itself, Dr Mkhize can perform a procedure to relocate the testicle into the scrotum.

Cryptorchidism Symptoms

The testicles form in the abdomen while a baby is developing. During the last couple of months of fetal development, the testicles slowly move from the abdomen into the scrotum. When a testicle is undescended, that process becomes delayed.

Not being able to see or feel a testicle where you would expect it to be in the scrotum is the primary symptom of an undescended testicle.

When to see a doctor about an undescended testicle

If your baby has an undescended testicle, ask your doctor how often your son will need to be examined. For example, if your son is 4 months old and the testicle hasn't moved into the scrotum, the problem probably won't correct itself, and he may need surgery to migrate the testicle.

Dr Mkhize recommends treating undescended testicles while your son is still a baby to lower the risk of complications later in life.

Older boys who have typically descended testicles at birth might appear to be “missing” a testicle later, possibly indicating:

A retractile testicle: a testiclewhich shifts back and forth between the scrotum and groin. During a physical exam, your doctor might easily be able to guide the testicle into the scrotum. This is normal and is caused by a muscle reflex in the scrotum.

An ascending testicle: a testiclethat has “returned” to the groin and cannot be guided by hand back into the scrotum.

If you notice any changes in your son's genitals, schedule an appointment with Dr Mkhize, and he will conduct a thorough examination.