Undescended Testis on Male Fertility - MITR Hospital
Long-Term Effects of Undescended Testis on Male Fertility
Undescended testis, medically known as cryptorchidism, is a condition where one or both testicles fail to descend into the scrotum. This condition is commonly diagnosed in newborns and, if left untreated, can lead to complications, including damage to the testis, testicular torsion, infertility, or rarely malignancy. Studies suggest that approximately 3% of full-term male infants and up to 30% of preterm male infants are born with an undescended testis. Understanding the long-term effects of undescended testis on male fertility is crucial for timely diagnosis and treatment. At Mitr Hospital in Navi Mumbai, specialized treatment options are available to manage this condition effectively and prevent future fertility issues.
What is Undescended Testis?
An undescended testis occurs when the testicle does not move into its proper position in the scrotum before birth. This condition can be unilateral (affecting one testis) or bilateral (affecting both testicles). If not corrected in early childhood, it may lead to testicular dysfunction, affecting sperm production and overall reproductive health.
How Does Undescended Testis Affect Male Fertility?
1. Impaired Sperm Production and risk of infertility
Testicles need to be in the scrotum, where the temperature is lower than the body’s core temperature. When a testis remains in the abdomen or groin, it is exposed to higher temperatures, which can negatively impact sperm production, leading to reduced sperm count and motility. Studies indicate that nearly 30-40% of men with a history of untreated bilateral undescended testis experience significant fertility issues.
2. Hormonal Imbalance
Testosterone, the primary male hormone, plays a crucial role in fertility. An undescended testis may not function properly, leading to hormonal imbalances that can impair sperm development and overall reproductive health.
3. Increased Risk of Testicular Cancer
Men with a history of undescended testis have a 2-8 times higher risk of developing testicular cancer compared to the general population. Furthermore, approximately 5-10% of testicular cancer cases have a history of undescended testis.
4. Testicular Atrophy
Prolonged exposure to abnormal temperatures can lead to testicular atrophy, where the testis shrinks and loses its ability to produce healthy sperm. This can lead to reduced testicular volume and diminished reproductive potential.
Treatment Options for Undescended Testis
1. Hormonal Therapy
In the past, hormone therapy using hCG (human chorionic gonadotropin) was used to stimulate testicular descent. However, research has shown that it may be harmful to the testis and is now considered obsolete.
2. Surgery (Orchiopexy)
Orchiopexy is a surgical procedure to reposition the undescended testis into the scrotum. This surgery is most effective when performed before the child turns one year old, significantly reducing the risk of infertility and testicular cancer.
3. Assisted Reproductive Techniques (ART)
For men who experience fertility issues due to untreated undescended testis, assisted reproductive techniques such as IVF (In Vitro Fertilization) and ICSI (Intracytoplasmic Sperm Injection) can help achieve parenthood.
Why Choose Mitr Hospital in Navi Mumbai for Treatment?
At Mitr Hospital in Navi Mumbai, expert pediatric urologists provide treatment for undescended testis. With state-of-the-art facilities and personalized care, patients receive the best possible surgical intervention at the right age to prevent long-term complications.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
While surgical correction is possible in adulthood, it is less effective in preserving fertility compared to early childhood intervention.
No, infertility is not guaranteed. However, the risk is significantly higher, especially if both testicles were undescended and left untreated.
The ideal age for treatment is between 6 to 18 months of age. Early intervention ensures better testicular function and reduces fertility risks.
Yes, many men with a history of undescended testis can conceive naturally, especially if they received timely treatment. However, fertility assessments may be necessary.
Symptoms include reduced testicle size, pain, and decreased sperm production, which may lead to fertility issues.
Conclusion
Undescended testis is a serious condition that can impact male fertility if left untreated. Early diagnosis and treatment at Mitr Hospital in Navi Mumbai can help prevent long-term complications. If your child has been diagnosed with cryptorchidism, consult a specialist today to explore the best treatment options.