Retractile testicles: Boys whose testicles move back and forth between the scrotum and groin (retractile testicles) usually don’t need treatment. However, they should have regular check-ups until puberty to ensure the testicles stay in the correct position and don’t move back into the abdomen.
Ectopic testicles: These testicles are located outside the scrotum, and surgery (orchidopexy) is needed to move them into the scrotum.
Surgery timing: If a testicle hasn’t moved into the scrotum on its own by 1 year old, or no later than 18 months, surgery should be performed. Delaying treatment can increase the risk of infertility later in life.
Finding hidden testicles: If a testicle cannot be found during a physical exam, doctors may use laparoscopy. This involves inserting a small camera through a tiny incision in the abdomen to locate the testicle. If found, the testicle can be moved into the scrotum or removed during the same procedure.
Hormonal therapy: Hormonal treatments are not the standard way to treat undescended testicles but may still be used in certain cases. This is typically suggested for boys with both testicles undescended to help preserve fertility and encourage the testicles to descend.
Older boys with one hidden testicle: If an older boy has one normal testicle and one testicle still in the abdomen, doctors may recommend removing the hidden testicle due to the increased risk of testicular cancer in later life.
Two hidden testicles: If a baby boy is born with both testicles missing from the scrotum, doctors will check for possible conditions that could affect the development of the boy’s sex organs. Further testing, including hormonal and genetic evaluations, may be needed.
Treatment based on testicle location:
- Ectopic testicles require surgery to reposition them into the scrotum.
- Retractile testicles should be carefully monitored until puberty to ensure they don’t move back into the abdomen.
- If both testicles are non-palpable and concerns about sexual development exist, additional testing with hormone and genetic specialists may be necessary.