Getting To Know Cryptorchidism In Premature Infants

The condition of cryptorchidism is quite common, means wherein the testicles are undescended. The condition is painless and congenital (it is present at birth). About one to two percent of the male babies are affected, and premature infants tend to be affected at a higher rate. The chance of having it risen in the premature baby. In about 20 percent of the cases, the undescended testicle does not resolve itself on its own within the baby`s first three to four months of life. If this occurs, surgery will not be needed. Many parents worry if their baby boys would be able to have children. The answer most often is yes, for infants with one undescended testicle.

What Are The Long-Term Consequences Of Cryptorchidism?

Cryptorchidism could increase the chances of infertility, more often if the two testicles are affected. On the other hand, infants with one undescended testicle usually have the same chances of having kids as those who are not affected. Boys with two undescended testicles have a significantly low level of fertility rate.

What Is The Treatment Of Cryptorchidism?

If the testicles do not descend on their own before the first birthday of the child, a urologist should be contacted. The type of surgery is called orchiopexy which will move the testicle down into the scrotum. On the other hand, surgery is not always required. But keep in mind that is highly recommended because it will likely reduce the long-term effects of the condition such as the risk of cancer or infertility. Most often the doctors can fix the undescended testicle with one single operation. Parents have time do decide, because most of the surgeries to correct cryptorchidism are made between 6 and 12 months of age.

Complications of operations are quite rare but may include sometimes infection or bleeding. The most usual complication occurs when the testicle goes back up into the abdomen. But keep in mind that still, this happens very rare. The operation is generally simple and the children are free the next day from the hospital. The child could feel some discomfort after the surgery, but most of the kids tend to feel better after a day. It is advised the infant not to sit on riding toys for about a month so that an injury to the testicle can be prevented. Annual examination at the urologist should be made to check if the testicle is developing properly.

Cryptorchidism causes infertility if it remains prevalent even after a certain age in young boys. This should be taken care of before the situation gets worse or can cause infertility. It gets a prime responsibility of the family members to look after the proper physical development; keep an observant eye on urine pattern of your child, etc. The parent or guardian should look for the best doctor for the child.

Reference

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