Retractile testicle

Diagnosis

During a physical examination, a healthcare provider can diagnose a retractile testicle by ensuring it is not an undescended testicle. The examination can be conducted while the individual is lying down, sitting, or standing. In the case of toddlers, the doctor may ask them to sit with the soles of their feet touching and knees to the sides, as this position facilitates locating and manipulating the testicle. If the testicle is retractile, it will move relatively easily and not immediately return to its original location. However, if the testicle retreats immediately back into the groin, it is more likely to be an undescended testicle.

Treatment

There is no need for surgery or other treatments for retractile testicles. Before or after puberty, a retractile testicle is prone to descend on its own. If your son has a retractile testicle, his doctor will keep track of any shifts in its location during yearly exams to assess if it will stay in the scrotum, continue to be retractile, or become an ascending testicle.