Undescended and retractile testicle

What is it?

Retractile testicle is a condition in which the testicle can move freely between the groin and the scrotum. In retractile testicles, the testis can be easily guided in a physical examination to the scrotum. It could be caused by an overactive cremaster muscle, which pulls the testicle upwards. Typically, before or during puberty this situation is resolved by its own, when the testicle stays permanently in the scrotum. If not, it is called an undescended testicle. An undescended testicle is usually unilateral, but in 10% may be bilateral, and it is more common in boys born prematurely. Other risk factors include low birth weight, family history, Down syndrome or abdominal wall defect, maternal alcohol usage or smoking during pregnancy, and parents' exposure to some pesticides.Complications may include testicular cancer, fertility problems, hernia, and testicular torsion.