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Coping and support
By Mayo Clinic staffIf your son doesn't have one or both testicles, he might be sensitive about his appearance. He might have anxieties about looking different from friends or classmates, especially if he has to undress in front of others in gym class. The following strategies might help him cope:
- Teach your son the right words to use when talking about the scrotum and testicles.
- Explain that there are usually two testicles in the scrotum. If he's missing one or both, explain in simple terms what that means and that he's still a healthy boy.
- Remind him that he's not ill or in danger of illness.
- Talk to him about whether a testicular prosthesis is a good option for him.
- Help him practice a response if he's teased or asked about the condition.
- Buy him loosefitting boxer shorts and swim trunks that might make the condition less noticeable when changing clothes and playing sports.
- Be aware of signs of worry or embarrassment, such as not participating in sports that he'd normally enjoy.
References
- Ashley RA, et al. Cryptorchidism: Pathogenesis, diagnosis, treatment and prognosis. Urologic Clinics of North America. 2010;37:183.
- Cooper CS, et al. Undescended testes (cryptorchidism) in children and adolescents. http://www.uptodate.com/home. Accessed Feb. 15, 2013.
- Kliegman RM, et al. Nelson Textbook of Pediatrics. 19th ed. Philadelphia, Pa.: Saunders Elsevier; 2011. http://www.mdconsult.com/das/book/body/208746819-6/0/1608/0.html. Accessed Feb. 15, 2013.
- Lao OB, et al. Pediatric inguinal hernias, hydroceles, and undescended testicles. Surgical Clinics of North America. 2012;92:487.
- Nippoldt TB (expert opinion). Mayo Clinic, Rochester, Minn. March 28, 2013.
- Granberg CF (expert opinion). Mayo Clinic, Rochester, Minn. March 28, 2013.
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