This condition is known as the undescended testis or cryptorchidism when one or both testicles fail to drop into the scrotum. It is a very common condition in newborn babies, especially premature babies. The testicles normally descend into the scrotum within the first year. However, if the testicles have not dropped before age 1, then it would prompt a medical intervention. In this blog, we are going to discuss the diagnosis, risks, and treatment for an undescended testis.
What Is an Undescended Testis?
Undescended testis is a condition where the testicles have not moved down into the scrotum. Testicles normally move down into the scrotum before birth, but sometimes they don’t from the abdomen or groin. This occurs in around 3-4% of full-term male infants and around 30% of premature infants.
How Is Undescended Testis Diagnosed?
A physical exam of the individual usually marks the beginning of diagnosis for an undescended testis. The doctor checks the scrotum for the absence of testicles. In some cases, an ultrasound or an MRI scan can help track down the location of the testicle in case it does not appear to be within the scrotum.
Furthermore, hormone tests may be used to see if the testicle can come down on its own in some cases. If the testicle is still absent by the age of 1, surgery is usually recommended.
Risks of an Undescended Testis
Several risks are associated with an undescended testis if left untreated. The most significant risk is infertility. If the testicles remain in the abdomen or groin, they are exposed to higher temperatures, which may affect sperm production. Therefore, early treatment is important to avoid long-term fertility issues.
Additionally, an undescended testis increases the likelihood of testicular cancer. The risk for testicular cancer, even after a testicle has descended, is higher in males who have had a history of cryptorchidism. Additionally, the condition may lead to the occurrence of hernia, and this may cause pain or discomfort.
Treatment Options for Undescended Testis
The treatment for undescended testis depends on the child’s age and the position of the testicle. Typically, if it hasn’t descended by the first year, doctors generally recommend surgical intervention. Therefore, the most common procedure, orchiopexy, carefully moves the testicle into its final position within the scrotum. This simple surgery aids proper development and reduces future health risks.
Moreover, orchiopexy is performed between the ages of 6 months and 18 months. This early treatment helps prevent secondary complications, such as infertility or testicular cancer. Generally, kids recover rapidly after the procedure, and the testicle works normally afterwards.
In some cases, hormone therapy is used to facilitate the spontaneous descent of the testicle. However, this method is not as effective as surgery and is rarely used today. Therefore, surgery remains the preferred treatment.
When Should You Seek Medical Help?
If you detect that your child has an absent testicle or if the testicle is not in the scrotum when the child reaches 6 months of age, it is best to seek professional medical attention. Early diagnosis and treatment can also prevent long-term complications. Moreover, if you are an adult who had undescended testis during your childhood, then you should periodically check your body for signs of testicular cancer or fertility disorders.
How Can a Specialist Help?
If you are searching for the most qualified sexologist in Namakkal or require consultation with an experts in Andrology and Men’s Health in Tamilnadu, you can surely get a multitude of experts that can lead you through the treatment process.
An experienced Consultant UroAndrologist in Tamilnadu can give the best advice on the various alternatives of treatment and will be able to supervise your post-treatment health.
Furthermore, if you need further information on this condition or the treatment, you can visit the Best Andrologist in Salem. They will offer you specialized care, from diagnosis to post-treatment management, so that you receive the best possible care.
Conclusion
Undescended testis is a frequent problem that demands prompt diagnosis and treatment. Such a condition predisposes to two serious risks-infertility and cancer of the testis-and calls for early intervention. Therefore, with appropriate treatment by an appropriate specialist, most people have effective treatment and normal testicular function. If you or your child has a condition of an undescended testis, do not wait. Early intervention is the best route to achieving good long-term health.
Contact the best sexologist in Namakkal or a specialist andrologist at Salem to offer adequate care concerning your condition. In that way act in time and try expert medical solutions against complications emerging out in near time.
AndroOne – Sexologist and Andrologist In Salem & Namakkal
