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This is because the testes don't pass down from the belly into the scrotal sac until month 7 of a baby's growth in the uterus. Other causes may include hormone problems or spina bifida. It may be caused by a reflex that causes a testicle to move up and down from the scrotum back into the groin (retractile testes).
- What causes the testes to descend during fetal development?
- When do testes descend in a fetus?
- Can testes descend after birth?
What causes the testes to descend during fetal development?
Testicular descent is a multifactorial process, involving development of the testis, the hormonal actions of insulin-like growth factor 3 and testosterone, an intact hypothalamic pituitary testicular axis, a patent processus vaginalis, gubernacular outgrowth and regression and intra-abdominal pressure1-3.
When do testes descend in a fetus?
Conclusion: All testes had descended to the scrotum by 33 weeks of gestation, but there was considerable variation in position from 27 weeks.
Can testes descend after birth?
That's called an undescended testicle. It can happen to any baby boy, but it's more common for those born earlier than expected. More often than not, the testicle drops into the scrotum on its own by the time the baby is 6 months old. If it doesn't, the child will likely need surgery.
