Cryptorchidism (krip-TOR-ki-dizm) is a condition where one or both testicles (the male reproductive glands) don’t drop into the scrotum (the skin sac below the penis) before birth. It’s also called an “undescended testicle.”
How Common Is It?
About 3 in 100 baby boys are born with it.
It’s more common in premature babies (up to 30%).
Sometimes, the testicle drops on its own by 6 months old. If not, doctors may need to treat it.
Where Is the Testicle?
The undescended testicle might be stuck:
In the belly (abdomen).
In the groin (the area between the belly and leg).
Somewhere else along the normal path it should have taken.
Why Does It Happen?
The exact cause is unknown, but possible reasons include:
Hormone problems (chemical signals that control body growth).
Genetics (family history).
Physical blockages stopping the testicle from moving down.
What Happens if It’s Not Treated?
Lower fertility (harder to have kids later, especially if both testicles are affected).
Higher risk of testicular cancer (still rare, but doctors keep an eye on it).
Testicular torsion (a painful twist in the cord that holds the testicle).
Hernia (a bulge near the groin where tissue pushes through a weak spot).
How Is It Diagnosed?
A doctor checks during a physical exam.
If they can’t feel it, they might use:
Ultrasound (sound wave pictures).
MRI (detailed body scan).
Sometimes, a small surgery (laparoscopy) to look inside.
How Is It Treated?
Surgery (Orchioplexy): The most common fix. The doctor moves the testicle into the scrotum and stitches it in place. This is usually done before age 2.
Hormone Therapy (Rare): Sometimes, doctors try hormones to help the testicle drop, but this doesn’t always work.
If treated early, most boys grow up normally with no major problems.
They should still do regular self-checks as teens/adults to watch for any changes.
