Skip to main content

Condition

Pediatric Undescended Testes

Key Points About Undescended Testes in Children

  • Undescended testes means one or both of the male testes have not passed down into the scrotal sac. This is a condition seen in some newborn baby boys.
  • A baby is more at risk if he is born before 37 weeks of pregnancy (preterm), or has a family member with the condition.
  • In many cases, the testes descend on their own into the scrotum by 3 months old. In most cases, the testes descend by age 6 months without any treatment.
  • In other cases, surgery or hormone therapy may be needed.
  • If testes don’t descend, this can cause problems such as infertility, higher risk of testicular cancer, and other problems.

Appointments:

Our team is standing by to schedule your child’s appointment.

Frequently Asked Questions

 

What are undescended testes in children?

What causes undescended testes in a child?

Which children are at risk for undescended testes?

What are the symptoms of undescended testes in a child?

How are undescended testes diagnosed in a child?

How are undescended testes treated in a child?

What are possible complications of undescended testes in children?

When should I call my child’s healthcare provider?

Urology Treatment at Children's National Hospital

The Division of Urology at Children's National Hospital offers expert care and advanced diagnostic testing in a family-centered environment. Discover more about the treatment we offer.

Girl Smiling and Clapping

Help Kids and Make a Difference

Invest in future cures for some of life's most devastating diseases. Give today to help more children grow up stronger.

Girl Smiling and Clapping

PATIENT STORY

Providers Who Treat Undescended Testes

Departments that Treat Undescended Testes

    Baby crawling on exam table

    Urology

    At Children’s National Hospital in Washington, D.C., our pediatric urologists provide comprehensive care for disorders affecting reproductive and urinary organs.