Undescended testicles

Undescended testicles is when one or both testicles have not descended (come down) into the scrotum before your baby is born. It's the most common testicular condition a baby may be born with.

Most undescended testicles move into the scrotum on their own within 3 months after birth. If they don't, surgery may be needed. Left untreated, the condition may lead to complications.

Undescended testicles is also called 'cryptorchidism' and 'undescended testes'.

What are the testicles?

The testicles (testes) are part of the male reproductive system and the endocrine (hormonal) system. They make sperm and the hormone testosterone.

The testicles form in the abdomen (tummy) of male babies during pregnancy. They usually come down into the scrotum before the eighth month of pregnancy.

In babies with undescended testicles, the testicles are still in the tummy or groin instead of the scrotum.

The cause of undescended testes is often unknown, but there are several factors that may increase your baby's risk, such as:

• premature birth
• low birth weight
• a family history of undescended testicles
• exposure to cigarette smoking during pregnancy

Sometimes a baby is born with their testes in their scrotum, but they move up into the groin later. This may happen at any age before puberty. This condition is called 'acquired undescended testes' or 'ascending testis'.

Undescended testicles is usually found as part of a routine check of your baby after birth.

Visit your doctor or baby health clinic if you can't feel one or both testicles in your baby's scrotum.

See your doctor urgently if your baby has undescended testicles that are causing pain.

Your doctor can diagnose undescended testicles during a physical examination. If they can't feel your baby's testicles, your baby may be referred for an ultrasound to locate them.

Your doctor may also check for other testicular conditions, such as inguinal hernia or retractile testicles. Retractile testicles (testicles that move in and out of the scrotum) can usually be gently moved into place. Undescended testicles cannot.

If your doctor can't find your baby's testicles, they will refer you to a paediatrician or paediatric surgeon.

If your baby's testicles have not come down by 3 to 6 months of age, they are unlikely to come down by themselves. Undescended testicles are usually treated with surgery from 6 months old.

During surgery, the surgeon gently stretches the spermatic cord and brings the testicle down into the scrotum, where they secure it in place. The operation is called 'orchidopexy'.

Your doctor will discuss with you the need for follow-up appointments.

Many risk factors for undescended testicles can't be changed, but avoiding smoking during pregnancy can help lower the risk of undescended testicles.

• Royal Children's Hospital Melbourne has information about undescended testicles.
• Sydney Children's Hospitals Network has a factsheet on surgery for undescended testes in children.
• HealthyWA has information about testicular conditions, including undescended testicles.

The Pregnancy, Birth and Baby video call service allows you to speak face-to-face with a maternal child health nurse. Video call is a free service and is available from 7am to midnight (AEST), 7 days a week (including public holidays).

You can also call the healthdirect helpline on 1800 022 222 (known as NURSE-ON-CALL in Victoria). A registered nurse is available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.

Looking for support for Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander people?

Find an Aboriginal Community Controlled Health Organisation (ACCHO) or affiliate near you.