Locations:
Search IconSearch

5 Things to Know If Your Baby’s Testicle Hasn’t Dropped

Facts about undescended testicles from a urologist

Baby having diaper changed

You’re likely concerned if your baby boy is missing a testicle at birth. But don’t panic — it’s probably there, but you just can’t see it.

Advertisement

Cleveland Clinic is a non-profit academic medical center. Advertising on our site helps support our mission. We do not endorse non-Cleveland Clinic products or services. Policy

While in the uterus, a baby’s testicles initially develop in his abdominal cavity. Not long before birth, they typically ‘drop’ (the proper medical term is descend) into his scrotum. In some cases, though, one or both testicles fail to descend before birth. This is known as an undescended testicle or what doctors call cryptorchidism.

Cryptorchidism is not that uncommon for baby boys, especially if they’re born early. It only happens in about 3% of full-term babies, but the percentage rises to 30% in premature baby boys.

So what should you do? Pediatric urologist Jeffrey Donohoe, MD, discusses five key facts you should know about undescended testicles:

1. In 80% of babies who have cryptorchidism, the testicle is found in the groin.

In that case, your pediatrician likely is able to feel it during a physical exam. If your doctor can’t feel the testicle, it may also be in the abdomen. In either case, the condition isn’t likely painful for your son.

2. Cryptorchidism can be caused by different factors.

Dr. Donohoe says it can either be congenital (present at birth) or acquired (the testicle moves up out of the scrotum as your child begins to grow).

3. Imaging studies aren’t recommended.

Undescended testicles are typically diagnosed during a physical exam. Your child should not need an ultrasound, X-rays, a CT scan, an MRI or any other type of imaging study.

4. You need to see a specialist.

“Most pediatricians are good at identifying cryptorchidism early on and referring the infant to a urologist,” says Dr. Donohoe. You should take your son to a urologist by the time he is 6 months old, or sooner, if you have concerns or questions.

Advertisement

If your child has both cryptorchidism and hypospadias (a birth defect in which the opening of the urethra is not located at the tip of the penis), he will need further evaluation to make sure he won’t have problems with sexual development. And if the cryptorchidism is bilateral (on both sides), he could also be at risk for problems with sexual development.

5. Treatment may require surgery.

It’s possible that the testicle will descend on its own by the time your baby is 6 months old. If it doesn’t, he will need surgery. The good news is that surgical repair is an outpatient procedure made with small incisions. If the testicle is in the abdomen, the procedure can be performed laparoscopically, a minimally invasive approach.

Even though cryptorchidism isn’t painful, it is important to address in order to reduce the risk of complications from testicular cancer and infertility.

Advertisement

Learn more about our editorial process.

Related Articles

Ear being pierced with a piercing gun
June 16, 2025/Skin Care & Beauty
Ear Piercing 101: Healing, Hurting, Cleaning and More

Earlobe piercings heal quicker and are less painful than cartilage piercings — proper cleaning and care are important

Children in a barn on a farm, standing and sitting on hay bales, petting an animal
June 13, 2025/Infectious Disease
Is the Hygiene Hypothesis True or False?

We don’t fully understand how cleanliness impacts immune system development, but we do know that preventing illness is important

Child eats a piece of chicken with a full plate of chicken in the foreground
June 10, 2025/Nutrition
Protein and Kids: How Much Is Too Much?

Most kids get enough protein in a regular diet — too much can have side effects

A child uses a pool noodle to stay afloat while an adult supervises behind them
June 9, 2025/Children's Health
Pool Safety: How To Keep Kids Safe in the Water

Keep kids safe while they swim by staying vigilant and setting up a safe pool environment

Smiling baby with big eyes and two tiny teeth
May 21, 2025/Children's Health
When Do Babies’ Eyes Change Color?

Once your baby’s eyes are exposed to more light, they may start to deepen in hue or change color altogether, usually between 3 and 9 months

Caregiver standing behind toddler at sink, helping them wash their hands
May 16, 2025/Children's Health
What Is Scaffolding?

This child development strategy is all about meeting your child where they are

Young child sitting on edge of bed, holding stomach in discomfort
May 9, 2025/Digestive
Signs Your Child May Have Celiac Disease

Delays in growth, stomach aches and bathroom issues are all symptoms of this serious digestive condition

Child playing with toys, being assessed from afar by a healthcare provider
How Common Is Autism?

Current research suggests 1 of every 31 children in the U.S. has ASD — and that’s probably an undercount

Trending Topics

Person in bed sleeping on their side, covers off
Breathing Problems? Try These Sleep Positions

If you’re feeling short of breath, sleep can be tough — propping yourself up or sleeping on your side may help

A couple looking at skyline, with one person slightly behind the other, head bent down
What Is Anxious Attachment Style — and Do You Have It?

If you fear the unknown or find yourself needing reassurance often, you may identify with this attachment style

Glasses and bottle of yellow-colored prebiotic soda, with mint, lemon and ginger garnish
Are Prebiotic Sodas Good for You?

If you’re looking to boost your gut health, it’s better to get fiber from whole foods

Ad