Overview
During fetal development, the testicles develop in the abdomen. Testicles make and store sperm sex cells. Before birth, the testicles typically drop from inside the abdomen into the scrotum. The scrotum is the thin pouch of skin behind the penis that normally holds the testicles. Undescended testicles are when the testicles fail to drop into the scrotum before birth or in the first few months of life.
Another name for undescended testicles is cryptorchidism.
Are undescended testicles serious?
Without treatment, undescended testicles can be serious. They can lower your child’s testosterone levels and affect their sperm health. With or without treatment, your child may also have a slightly increased risk of developing testicular cancer. But earlier treatment decreases this increased risk.
How common are undescended testicles?
About 3% of babies have undescended testicles at birth. However, undescended testicles are more common in premature babies. Up to 30% of premature babies have undescended testicles.
In about half of babies who have undescended testicles, the testicles will descend on their own within a few months.
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Symptoms
When to see a doctor
Complications
Blood clots are a dangerous complication of atrial fibrillation (AFib). Blood clots can lead to stroke.
The risk of stroke from AFib increases as you grow older. Other health conditions also may increase the risk of a stroke due to AFib. These conditions include:
- High blood pressure.
- Diabetes.
- Heart failure.
- Some types of heart valve disease.
Blood thinners are commonly prescribed to prevent blood clots and strokes in people with atrial fibrillation.
Prevention
Healthy lifestyle choices can reduce the risk of heart disease and may prevent atrial fibrillation (AFib). Here are some basic heart-healthy tips:
- Control high blood pressure, high cholesterol and diabetes.
- Don't smoke or use tobacco.
- Eat a diet that's low in salt and saturated fat.
- Exercise at least 30 minutes a day on most days of the week unless your health care team says not to.
- Get good sleep. Adults should aim for 7 to 9 hours daily.
- Maintain a healthy weight.
- Reduce and manage stress.
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