Overview
About undescended testicle
UW Health Kids Urology experts understand the stress and awkward situations that can arise when your child needs urologic care. It's a sensitive issue and together we take excellent care of your child every step of the way.
Signs of undescended testicle(s)
Not seeing or feeling a testicle where you would expect it to be in the scrotum is the main sign of an undescended testicle. In most cases, the healthcare provider can feel the testicle above the scrotum, but in some cases the testicle is located high in the abdomen.
Is it common?
Undescended testicle(s) (also known as cryptorchidism) affect about 1-4.5% of newborns with a higher incidence (30-45%) in preterm male babies. In roughly half of these cases, the testicle(s) will descend on its own within the first three to six months. If this doesn’t happen for your child, we can help with a surgical option.
Simple procedure, fast recovery
An outpatient surgery called an orchiopexy can relocate the testicle(s) to the scrotum. Our team commonly uses a technique involving one small incision instead of two. This is not only associated with less operating time but also results in faster recovery for your son. We recommend a child undergo this surgery when they are between 6 and 12 months of age to decrease the risk of complications, such as loss of testicular function or cancer, later in life.
Our commitment
Our pediatric urologists at UW Health and American Family Children's Hospital in Madison, Wisconsin are committed to being there through your child's entire treatment process; before, during and after surgery.
FAQ
Answers to common questions
Undescended testicles are a very common condition occurring in nearly 5% of newborn boys. Many parents are relieved to learn that this condition, also known as cryptorchidism, is benign, but it can bring up questions.
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