Undescended testicles: Keep an eye on the egg

Parents often stand nervously in the surgery because they think their son's testicles have disappeared. First of all, you need to know what the cremasteric reflex is. This causes the testicles to be pulled upwards in response to tension or cold. The first step is therefore a check at home: the child should be relaxed and in a warm environment (a bathtub is great!) and/or sitting cross-legged, because then the cremasteric reflex is switched off. If there is any doubt as to whether both testicles are visible and palpable in the scrotum, it is advisable to speak to the paediatrician.

Up to three per cent of all boys are born and the testicles are not where they should be. This often corrects itself in the first six months. If this is not the case, it should be ensured between the sixth and twelfth month that the testicles are firmly in the scrotum. This can be done with hormone therapy, but this is rarely done. There is usually a surgical procedure (orchidopexy) in which the testicles are stitched to the wall of the scrotum.

It is important to note that even if everything is fine at the age of one, there are still some boys whose testicles do not move upwards until later. It is therefore essential that the child's genitals are also examined at all check-ups.

Why is this so important? If the testicles are not where they should be, there can be two problems. One is reduced fertility. Normally, this is not a major problem because a normal position on one side, or a healthy testicle on one side, is actually sufficient for normal fertility. The more serious problem is that undescended testicles - if not treated - lead to a massively increased risk of testicular cancer. That's why this little topic is so important!

Additional information about the video:

There are different forms of undescended testicles. A pendulous testicle lies in the scrotum most of the time, but sometimes slips into the inguinal canal, e.g. when touched or cold. It also slips back again of its own accord - and is therefore not initially considered pathological or in need of treatment. However, it should be observed over several years because the testicle could remain permanently in the inguinal canal as the child grows.

An inguinal testicle can be felt in the groin and cannot be pulled down into the scrotum. A gliding testicle, on the other hand, can be pulled down but slides back into place. An abdominal testicle is not palpable and, as the name suggests, is located in the abdominal cavity. It is also possible that there is no testicle or a very small, non-functional testicle.

As always: observe and consult your doctor if in doubt.