What does cryptorchidism entail?

Cryptorchidism refers to a condition where one or both testes fail to descend from the abdomen into the scrotum before or shortly after birth. This is significant because the proper descent of the testes is crucial for normal sperm production and hormone (testosterone) production. When the testes are not positioned in the cooler environment of the scrotum, it can lead to complications like infertility, increased risk of testicular cancer, and other associated issues. The anatomical and physiological features of cryptorchidism can impact a person’s reproductive health, making the understanding of this condition essential in the context of male reproductive health awareness and management.