Retractile testicles are generally not associated with complications, aside from a greater risk of the testicle becoming an ascending testicle.

An ascending testicle, if not treated, is vulnerable to the same risks associated with an undescended testicle. Surgical treatment during childhood to correct an undescended testicle reduces these risks. Risks associated with an untreated undescended testicle include:

  • Testicular cancer. Testicular cancer usually begins in the cells in the testicle that produce immature sperm. What causes these cells to develop into cancer is unknown. Men who have had an undescended testicle have a greater risk of testicular cancer.
  • Fertility problems. Low sperm counts, poor sperm quality and low fertility rates are more likely among men who have had an undescended testicle.
  • Testicular torsion. Testicular torsion is the twisting of the spermatic cord. This painful condition cuts off blood to the testicle. If not treated promptly, it might result in the loss of the testicle. An undescended testicle increases the risk of testicular torsion.
  • Trauma. A testicle located in the groin might be susceptible to trauma or injury from compression against the pubic bone.
Sept. 16, 2015