What happens when testes fail to descend?

The testicles will descend normally at puberty and surgery is not needed. Testicles that do not naturally descend into the scrotum are considered abnormal. An undescended testicle is more likely to develop cancer, even if it is brought into the scrotum with surgery. Cancer is also more likely in the other testicle.

What’s the meaning of cryptorchidism?

A condition in which one or both testicles fail to move from the abdomen, where they develop before birth, into the scrotum. Cryptorchidism may increase the risk for development of testicular cancer. Also called undescended testicles.

Can undescended testicle correct itself?

If the testicle hasn’t moved into the scrotum by the time your son is 4 months old, the problem probably won’t correct itself. Treating an undescended testicle when your son is still a baby might lower the risk of complications later in life, such as infertility and testicular cancer.

When should an undescended testicle be corrected?

Your surgeon will likely recommend doing the surgery when your son is about 6 months old and before he is 12 months old. Early surgical treatment appears to lower the risk of later complications.

Why is cryptorchidism a problem?

Cryptorchidism also increases the risk of testicular torsion. This occurs when the spermatic cord becomes twisted. The spermatic cord contains nerves, blood vessels, and tubes that carry semen between each testicle and the penis. If a person does not receive quick treatment, they could lose the twisted testicle.

What can you do for an undescended testicle?

An undescended testicle is usually corrected with surgery. The surgeon carefully manipulates the testicle into the scrotum and stitches it into place (orchiopexy). This procedure can be done either with a laparoscope or with open surgery.

How serious is an undescended testicle?

If the testicles haven’t descended by 6 months, they’re very unlikely to do so and treatment will usually be recommended. This is because boys with untreated undescended testicles can have fertility problems in later life and an increased risk of developing testicular cancer.

Can a man with 1 testicle have babies?

Can I still have children? Yes, in most cases, people with one testicle can get someone pregnant. Remember, one testicle can provide enough testosterone for you to get an erection and ejaculate. This is also enough to produce adequate sperm for fertilization.

Is undescended testicle a birth defect?

Sometimes, one testis or both testes fail to descend, which is called undescended testis or undescended testicle. Undescended testicle is a birth defect that occurs in as many as 3% of boys, making it one of the most common birth defects seen.

What are the signs of infertility in males?

Symptoms