Undecended Testes

Undescended testes is a relatively common condition where the testicles are not in the normal position and may need to be treated surgically if they do not move into position by themselves. The treatment can prevent future issues for your child, such as fertility problems, so it is important to seek advice from a doctor.

What are Undescended Testes?

The testes usually move down into the scrotum before a baby is born. However, for about 1 in 25 boys, the testicles don't move down before birth. One or both of the testicles may remain inside the body. It isn't known why this happens, although it can be more common in babies who are born prematurely.

In most cases, it just takes a little longer for the testes to move into place. However, for a small number of boys the testes are not able to descend naturally. If the testes have not moved into position by six months of age, then surgery may be recommended to correct the problem.

Diagnosing Undescended Testes

Undescended testes won't usually cause any noticeable symptoms in babies, but the problem will usually be spotted during the newborn examination (baby check) or other physical checks. You may need to see a specialist to find out where the testes are located if the doctor can't feel them during the examination. In most cases, the doctor will be able to locate the testes just above their usual position. However, in some cases the testes can wander away from the usual path of descent or may not be present at all.

In young children, it is also possible for the testes to move around, so you may notice that they are only sometimes present in the scrotum. Retractile testes won't usually require any treatment as they usually settle into place in time, but they need to be checked regularly. You should, therefore, talk to your doctor so that the condition can be monitored.

Treatments for Undescended Testes

Although undescended testes will not cause any discomfort or other symptoms for your baby, it is important to treat this condition if it does not resolve itself within six months. Leaving the testes inside the body can increase the risk of fertility problems when your child grows up. It could also increase the risk of developing testicular cancer in the future. The best time to operate is usually between 6-12 months. It is important to see a specialist as soon as possible in order to plan the operation at the optimum time.

Undescended testes will usually be treated with a relatively straightforward surgery known as an orchidopexy that can be carried out as a day case under general anaesthetic. The testicles are moved down and fixed into the correct position. Sometimes it is necessary to perform a procedure called a laparoscopy first, which involves making keyhole incisions to insert a camera into your baby’s tummy so that the undescended testicle can be located in the abdomen. This will only be necessary if the testicle can't be located by a physical exam.

If your child has undescended or retractile testes, then you should seek expert advice. If treatment is needed, it is best to arrange the treatment promptly to minimise the future risks to your child's health and fertility.