Undescended Testes (Cryptorchidism) – Definition, Causes and Treatment Options
1. Definition
Cryptorchidism, or undescended testes, occurs when one or both testicles fail to settle into the scrotum before a baby boy is born. Normally, the testes form in the abdomen during pregnancy and descend into the scrotum in the last months before delivery. When this does not happen, the testicle may remain in the abdomen, groin or part-way down.
It is one of the most common conditions affecting baby boys, especially those born early. While many cases correct themselves within the first few months of life, some do not and need medical attention.
2. Key Takeaways
- Cryptorchidism means “hidden testes.”
- It usually affects one testicle, but in some cases, both may be undescended.
- Early diagnosis is very important for future fertility and testicular health.
- Without treatment, undescended testes may interfere with normal sperm production and heighten the risk of developing testicular cancer in adulthood.
- Surgery (orchidopexy) is the main treatment and is usually done before the age of one.
3. Why Cryptorchidism Diagnosis is Important for Fertility
- Impact on Sperm Production
The scrotum keeps the testes slightly cooler than the rest of the body. This cooler temperature is necessary for healthy sperm production. When the testes remain inside the abdomen or groin, the higher temperature can damage the cells that make sperm. If the condition is not corrected, this may lead to low sperm count and reduced fertility later in life.
- Testicular Health and Cancer Risk
Men with a history of undescended testes face a greater likelihood of developing testicular cancer in adulthood. Detecting the problem early and bringing the testes into the scrotum makes it easier to monitor testicular health and reduces, but does not completely remove, this risk.
- Hormonal Development
Testes also play an important role in producing male hormones, especially testosterone. If they remain undescended, this can affect the natural development of male features during puberty. Early treatment helps to protect both hormonal balance and fertility potential.
4. Example / User Case
Consider a boy who is born with one undescended testicle. At his routine six-month check-up, the doctor notices that it has not moved down naturally. The child is referred to a paediatric urologist, who confirms cryptorchidism and recommends surgery within the next few months.
The operation is successful, and by the time the boy reaches adolescence, his testicle is in the scrotum and functioning normally. Without this early diagnosis and surgery, he could have faced problems with sperm production and an increased risk of testicular cancer as an adult.
5. FAQs
Q1. Can undescended testes correct themselves?
Yes, in many newborns the testicle may descend naturally within the first three to six months. If not, medical treatment is usually required.
Q2. What is the treatment for cryptorchidism?
The standard treatment is a minor surgery called orchidopexy, where the testicle is moved into the scrotum and fixed in place.
Q3. At what age should surgery be done?
Doctors usually recommend treatment before the age of one, ideally between 6–12 months, to protect fertility and reduce health risks.
Q4. Does having undescended testes mean a man will always be infertile?
Not always. Many men treated early have normal fertility. If cryptorchidism is not corrected – particularly when it involves both testicles – the risk of infertility becomes significantly higher.
Q5. Can undescended testes increase the risk of other conditions?
Yes. Besides fertility problems, cryptorchidism raises the risk of testicular cancer, testicular torsion (twisting), and inguinal hernia.
Q6. Is hormone therapy ever used?
In some cases, doctors may try hormone injections to encourage the testes to descend, but surgery is generally more reliable.
6. Call to Action
If you or your child has been diagnosed with undescended testes, it is important to follow up with a qualified doctor. Early treatment protects sperm production, lowers health risks and supports healthy male development. Do not delay seeking medical advice – early action makes a big difference for future fertility.
7. Relevant Terms
- Cryptorchidism
- Orchidopexy
- Sperm production
- Fertility
- Testosterone
- Testicular cancer
- Hormone therapy
- Paediatric urologist
- Scrotum
- Inguinal hernia
- Testicular torsion
