Reproductive health
Medicines for Undescended testicle
When a baby boy's testicle has not moved down into the scrotum, common in newborns (especially if premature) — usually corrected with a simple operation if it does not descend by itself.
Education and reference only. This explains which medicines are used and why, in plain language — it deliberately contains no doses and is not a substitute for advice from your doctor or pharmacist. Always discuss your own treatment with a qualified clinician, and check the BNF and the product labelling for prescribing detail.
Quick answer
What is Undescended testicle?
An undescended testicle (cryptorchidism) is when one or both testicles have not moved down into the scrotum before or shortly after birth. The testicles normally develop in the tummy and descend into the scrotum before birth, so it is more common in babies born prematurely.
- How it is treated: If a testicle has not descended on its own by around six months of age, the usual treatment is a straightforward operation (orchidopexy) to bring the testicle down into the scrotum and secure it there, ideally carried out in the first year or so of life, as earlier treatment is better for future testicular health and fertility.
- Self-care: After treatment, being aware of how to check the testicles from adolescence onwards (given the small increased future risk) is a useful habit.
- When to seek help: Undescended testicles are usually picked up at newborn and baby checks.
What it is
An undescended testicle (cryptorchidism) is when one or both testicles have not moved down into the scrotum before or shortly after birth. The testicles normally develop in the tummy and descend into the scrotum before birth, so it is more common in babies born prematurely. In many babies, an undescended testicle moves down on its own during the first few months of life. If it does not, treatment is recommended, because a testicle that remains undescended can affect fertility later and slightly increases the risk of testicular problems, including cancer, in the future. It is usually found during the routine newborn or later baby checks, when the scrotum is examined. It is generally painless.
How it is treated
If a testicle has not descended on its own by around six months of age, the usual treatment is a straightforward operation (orchidopexy) to bring the testicle down into the scrotum and secure it there, ideally carried out in the first year or so of life, as earlier treatment is better for future testicular health and fertility. Sometimes the testicle cannot be found or is very small, which is assessed at the time. After treatment, the testicle is checked to confirm it is in the right place. Because of the small increased future risk of testicular problems, boys and men who had an undescended testicle are advised to be aware of checking their testicles as they grow up. Care is guided by a paediatric surgeon or urologist.
For this condition, these medicines
Medicine classes used for Undescended testicle
Each links to a full, dose-free guide — what it is, how it works, who can and cannot use it, side effects, interactions and FAQs.
Beyond medication
Lifestyle and self-care
After treatment, being aware of how to check the testicles from adolescence onwards (given the small increased future risk) is a useful habit. Otherwise no specific lifestyle measures are needed.
When to get help
When to see a doctor
Undescended testicles are usually picked up at newborn and baby checks. See a GP if you notice a baby boy's testicle is not in the scrotum, or cannot be felt, for assessment and referral if it has not descended by a few months of age.
Not sure how urgent it is? It is always OK to call NHS 111 for advice, day or night.
Answers
Undescended testicle: frequently asked questions
Does an undescended testicle need surgery?
If it has not moved down on its own by around six months, a simple operation to bring it into the scrotum is usually recommended, ideally in the first year or so, as this is better for future fertility and testicular health.
Why does an undescended testicle need correcting?
A testicle that stays undescended can affect fertility later and slightly increases the future risk of testicular problems, including cancer, which is why bringing it into the scrotum early is recommended.
Sources
Where this is drawn from
- NHS — Undescended testicles
- British Association of Paediatric Surgeons guidance
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