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Undescended Testicle in Baby Boys: Care Instructions

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Your Care Instructions

Testicles are male sex organs that make and store sperm. Before a boy is born, his testicles normally drop into the scrotum. The scrotum is the sac that hangs below the penis. When a testicle doesn't drop before birth, it's called an undescended testicle. This means it is still in the belly. Doctors don't understand why some testicles do not descend.

Your doctor will check your child's scrotum at each visit. He or she will likely advise a wait-and-see approach at first. In most children, a testicle that hasn't dropped will move into the scrotum by the age of 3 months. In some cases, surgery is needed to move the testicle into place.

Treatment is important. This condition makes it more likely that your son may not be able to father a child later in life. It also increases the chance of having cancer of the testicles.

Follow-up care is a key part of your child's treatment and safety. Be sure to make and go to all appointments, and call your doctor if your child is having problems. It's also a good idea to know your child's test results and keep a list of the medicines your child takes.

How can you care for your child at home?

  • Have your child take medicines exactly as prescribed. Call your doctor if you think your child is having a problem with his medicine. You will get more details on the specific medicines your doctor prescribes.
  • Go to all doctor visits so that the doctor can check your child for problems. This is important. Even if the testicle moves into the scrotum, sometimes it moves back out of the scrotum. If this happens, your child will need surgery.

When should you call for help?

Call your doctor now or seek immediate medical care if:

  • Your child's testicles do not move into the scrotum by the time he is 3 to 6 months old.

Watch closely for changes in your child's health, and be sure to contact your doctor if your child has any problems.

Where can you learn more?

Go to http://www.healthwise.net/patientEd

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The Health Encyclopedia contains general health information. Not all treatments or services described are covered benefits for Kaiser Permanente members or offered as services by Kaiser Permanente. For a list of covered benefits, please refer to your Evidence of Coverage or Summary Plan Description. For recommended treatments, please consult with your health care provider.