Undescended Testicles

What Undescended Testicles Means

Undescended testicles, also called cryptorchidism, is a condition where one or both testicles do not move down into the scrotum before or shortly after birth. Normally, testicles develop inside the abdomen during pregnancy and then descend into the scrotum, the pouch of skin below the penis. When this descent does not happen, the testicle remains hidden inside the abdomen or in the groin area. This is a common birth difference affecting boys, occurring in about 3% of full-term and up to 30% of premature infants. Most undescended testicles move down on their own within the first few months of life, but if they do not, medical evaluation and treatment may be needed.

Why Undescended Testicles Matter in Cancer Care

Having undescended testicles can increase the risk of developing testicular cancer later in life. The risk is higher if the testicle remains inside the abdomen rather than in the groin or scrotum. Early treatment, usually surgery called orchiopexy to bring the testicle into the scrotum, can help reduce this risk. It also makes it easier to detect any lumps or changes early, which is important because testicular cancer is most treatable when found early. Besides cancer risk, undescended testicles can affect fertility and increase the chance of testicular torsion, a painful twisting of the testicle that can cause damage.

What Patients Might See or Hear About Undescended Testicles

Families often learn about undescended testicles during newborn checkups or if a child has an empty scrotum or a lump in the groin area. Doctors may use terms like cryptorchidism or undescended testicles. Sometimes, a testicle may move back and forth between the scrotum and groin, called a retractile testicle, which is different from true undescended testicles. Treatment usually involves surgery during infancy or early childhood to lower risks and improve outcomes. Patients and caregivers should feel comfortable asking their healthcare team what this condition means for their child’s health and what follow-up care is needed.

Common Confusions and Related Terms

Undescended testicles are sometimes confused with other conditions such as monorchism, where only one testicle is present, or retractile testicles, which can move in and out of the scrotum. It is also related to other birth differences like hypospadias, which affects the position of the urethral opening. Understanding these differences helps avoid confusion when reading medical reports or discussing care. The term cryptorchidism is the medical name for undescended testicles and may appear in medical records, treatment plans, or educational materials.

How to Read the Term in Context and Next Steps