Cryptorchidism and Infertility – Causes, Symptoms & Treatment

What is Cryptorchidism?

Cryptorchidism, also known as undescended testicles, is a medical condition where one or both testicles fail to move down into the scrotum. This happens during fetal development or early childhood. This is a common cause of male infertility as it affects about 2-5% of newborn boys, with premature babies being at higher risk.

For some babies, their testicle may descend on its own within the first few months from birth. But in some cases, this doesn’t happen, leading to medical intervention. If left untreated cryptorchidism may lead to infertility because the testicles need a cooler temperature in the scrotum to produce healthy sperm. So, what happens when the testicles don’t descend? How does it impact male fertility? Let’s dive in.

How Cryptorchidism Affects Male Fertility

Testicles not only produce sperm but also regulate hormones which are essential for reproductive health. When they remain undescended, several fertility issues arise:

✅ Higher Temperatures Affect Sperm Quality – The abdomen is warmer than the scrotum, and sperm cannot thrive in high temperatures. This results in low sperm count (Oligospermia) or poor sperm motility (Asthenospermia).
 ✅ Hormonal Imbalances – Testosterone production gets disrupted by Cryptorchidism, which leads to sexual health issues.
 ✅ Testicular Damage Over Time – The longer a testicle stays in the abdomen, the greater the risk of irreversible sperm damage.
 ✅ Higher Risk of Testicular Cancer – Studies shoes that Untreated cryptorchidism have a higher chance of developing testicular cancer.

Early diagnosis and treatment can improve fertility outcomes and reduce long-term risks.

Symptoms & Diagnosis

Common Symptoms of Cryptorchidism

🔹 Absence of one or both testicles in the scrotum
 🔹 A smaller or underdeveloped scrotum
 🔹 Groin pain or discomfort which is not frequent (though not common in everyone)

Diagnostic Tests for Cryptorchidism

• Physical Examination – The doctor examines the scrotum to identify whether the testicles are present.
• Ultrasound or MRI – Imaging scans will help locate testicle, if it isn’t detected in primary examination
• Hormonal Testing – Blood tests will be done to examine testosterone and other reproductive hormones to assess testicular function.

Treatment Options for Cryptorchidism

If cryptorchidism doesn’t resolve on its own, treatment is necessary to protect fertility and overall health.

1️. Hormonal Therapy

Doctors sometimes recommend HCG (Human Chorionic Gonadotropin) or GNRH injections to stimulate testicular descent. However, this approach isn’t always effective. These injections simulate the natural hormones that trigger testicular descent during fetal development.

2️. Surgical Correction (Orchiopexy)

This is one of the most effective treatments. Orchiopexy is a minor surgery that moves the testicle into the scrotum. It is done in the early age, before 12-18 months of age, to maximize fertility potential. Research shows that early orchiopexy can significantly improve future sperm production.

3️. Assisted Reproductive Techniques (ART)

Many men experience fertility issues despite treatment. Assisted Reproductive Techniques ART can be done to couples facing severe infertility troubles.

• ART with ICSI (Intracytoplasmic Sperm Injection) – If sperm production in men is low, ICSI method is recommended by the specialists. In this method a single sperm is directly injected into an egg for fertilization. This provides more hope in conception.
• Sperm Retrieval Techniques (TESE, Micro-TESE) – In severe cases, sperm can be surgically retrieved from the testicles for assisted reproduction.

Final Thoughts

Cryptorchidism doesn’t always mean infertility, but early detection and treatment are crucial. If left untreated, it can lead to low sperm production, hormonal imbalances, and even testicular cancer. If you or your child has an undescended testicle, consulting a fertility specialist is the best step toward a healthy reproductive future.