In young boys a retractile testicle is a testicle that moves between the groin and scrotum. This may seem alarming but it's not a health risk. The testicle most often moves back down into the scrotum on its own, but sometimes may require a painless move by the hand. Most boys grow out of retractile testicle.
A retractile testicle is a testicle that moves back and forth between the groin and the scrotum (the sac underneath the penis). A retractile testicle is not considered a serious health risk. The condition can affect young boys; most grow out of retractile testicle by puberty.
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All males have a cremaster muscle (a thin pouch-like muscle in which a testicle rests). When the cremaster muscle contracts (tightens), it pulls the testicle upward toward the body; this is known as the cremasteric reflex. The cremasteric reflex is brought on by such things as cold, touch, and anxiety. In some boys, this reflex is exaggerated and causes a retractile testicle.
The main sign is the absence from time to time of one or both testicles. The testicles may be easily moved by hand down to the scrotum without pain, and stay there if the cremaster muscle is fatigued.
A retractile testicle is diagnosed by a healthcare provider during a physical exam. The provider will make sure that it is not an undescended testicle (a condition in which the testicle does not descend into the scrotum and remains in the groin).
In most cases, a retractile testicle does not need to be treated. It will often descend into the scrotum on its own without any medical help. Most cases of retractile testicle will end by the time the boy reaches puberty. A small percentage of retractile testicles can ascend and become undescended testicles. This would need to be treated with surgery.
Last reviewed by a Cleveland Clinic medical professional on 09/14/2020.
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