Overview
A retractile testicle moves up and down and is normal.
About 3 in 100 full-term boys and up to 1 in 3 premature boys are born with an undescended testicle.
Many move down by themselves in the first months.
Symptoms
Common signs:
- Testicle not in the scrotum
- Testicle that hasn't dropped
Less common
- Empty scrotum on one side
Look up a symptom: Testicle that hasn't dropped
When to get medical care
Call 911Sudden pain or swelling in the groin or scrotum.
Get care todayA painful groin lump.
See a doctor soonA testicle not down by 6 months.
Causes
Testicle didn't move down before birth.
Does it spread or run in families?
- It isn't contagious. You can't catch it from someone else.
Who is more likely to get it
- Premature birth
Possible complications
Diagnosis
A clinician feels for the testicle.
The exam
Exam of the scrotum and groin.
Treatment
Keep follow-up visits.
Self-care
- Have checks at well visits
- See a urologist if not down by 6 months
Prevention
It can't be prevented.
- There is no known way to prevent it. Early checkups help find it sooner.
Which doctor treats this
- Start with your child's pediatrician.
- They may send you to a pediatric specialist: a urologist (urinary tract doctor).
Children, pregnancy, and older adults
- Premature boys: More common.
For caregivers
- Learn the warning signs and when to call the doctor or 911.
- Keep a list of your child's medicines, doses, and doctors on your phone.
- Tell teachers, coaches, and sitters what to watch for and what to do.
- Take breaks and ask for help. Caregivers need care too.
Outlook
Surgery works well.
Surgery has a high success rate.
Getting ready for your visit
Bring a list of your symptoms and medicines.
Questions to ask
- When should surgery be done?
- Will this affect fertility?
Research studies
Research studies test new ways to find and treat health problems. Some are looking for volunteers. Talk with your doctor before joining one.
Search ClinicalTrials.gov for studies on Undescended testicle
Sources
Last updated 2026-11-12.