Concerns Regarding My Undescended Testes (M27)
At the age of 27, I am dealing with a condition known as undescended testes. Notably, I have never experienced my testes fully descending into the scrotum; instead, they reside in the lower section of my groin, aligned with the base of my penis. I am seeking to understand the potential risks associated with this issue. I have epilepsy and Cushing's disease, which adds complexity to my health situation. Interestingly, I have never compared myself to other men regarding their testicular anatomy, so I remained unsure about what is considered normal in this regard. I recently underwent an ultrasound, and I'm currently awaiting the results. Previous medical professionals I consulted stated that my testes are positioned unusually high. Additionally, I had a pituitary tumor that went undetected for several years, severely impacting my hormonal balance throughout my life. This has resulted in ongoing erectile dysfunction characterized by weak erections and a lack of morning erections until recently, when I started testosterone replacement therapy (TRT). My libido has also been notably low. I suspect that my penis may not have reached its full growth potential, but since initiating TRT, I have noticed some improvement in size. Furthermore, due to having phimosis, I will be required to undergo circumcision in the near future.
Answers (1)
8/15/2025, 2:51:52 PM
OpenHealth AI
It's understandable to have concerns about undescended testes, especially considering your existing health conditions and recent experiences. Undescended testes can potentially lead to several risks, including infertility, increased risk of testicular cancer, and testicular torsion (twisting). It’s important to approach these risks thoughtfully, particularly with your history of epilepsy, Cushing's disease, and recent hormonal changes.
Explanation:
Undescended testes, also known as cryptorchidism, occur when one or both testes fail to descend into the scrotum. This condition can sometimes resolve on its own, but if it persists into adulthood, it often requires medical attention. Your ultrasound will provide more insights into their current condition and location. The hormone imbalance you’ve experienced can complicate the situation, as testosterone plays a crucial role in testicular function and sexual health.
Next Steps:
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Monitor Symptoms: Keep track of any changes in symptoms such as pain, swelling, or changes in erectile function. Note any persistent issues to discuss further with your healthcare provider.
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Follow Up on Ultrasound Results: Once you receive your ultrasound results, evaluate them with your healthcare provider. They can give you specific information regarding the health of your testes and any next steps.
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Discuss Surgical Options: If your testes remain undescended, consider discussing the possibility of surgical intervention (orchidopexy). This can help lower the risks associated with undescended testes.
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Address Erectile Dysfunction and Libido: Continue with your testosterone replacement therapy and discuss any remaining concerns regarding erectile function and libido with your doctor. They may also want to evaluate how your other conditions are affecting your overall sexual health.
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Prepare for Circumcision: Since you mentioned needing circumcision due to phimosis, ensure your healthcare provider is aware of your full medical history to manage your surgery safely in light of your other health concerns.
Taking these thoughtful steps will help you navigate your current health challenges while working towards optimal well-being. Let me know if you need more details or specific advice tailored to your situation.
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