A hydrocele is a fluid-filled sac around the testicle that causes scrotum swelling. Hydroceles are most common in Newborns, especially in premature babies.
Symptoms of Swelling of the Scrotum in Newborns (Hydrocele)
A hydrocele doesn’t cause pain or harm. The only sign that is noticed is swelling of the scrotum. Although painless, consult a paediatrician to ensure your child does not have other health problems that could cause the swelling.
Hydroceles can temporarily change in size when a baby cries or changes position.
Causes of Swelling of the Scrotum in Newborns (Hydrocele)
During the developmental stages of the fetus in the womb, the testicles form in the baby’s abdomen and slowly move into the scrotum. When fluid drains from the abdomen through the open tube and gets trapped in the scrotum, a fluid-filled sac is formed (hydrocele), causing the scrotum to swell.
Hydroceles are caused due to-
- Build-up of fluid around the testicle (more common in older men)
- Swelling or injury of the testicle Â
There Are Two Types of Hydroceles (Swelling of The Scrotum in Newborns)
Communicating hydrocele: This is formed when the pocket that holds the testes does not fully close, due to which a small amount of abdominal fluid flows in and out of this pocket.
Non-communicating hydrocele: This is present from birth (congenital) and goes away on its own without any treatment in about a year.
Diagnosis of Swelling of the Scrotum in Newborns (Hydrocele)
Your child’s doctor will perform a physical examination to see if there is any fluid deposit in the testicles.
Your doctor will also check and rule out if he suspects the presence of a hernia (abnormal opening).
Your baby may also have a blood and urine test and an ultrasound to rule out the other causes of the inflammation or swelling.
Treatment of Swelling of the Scrotum in Newborns (Hydrocele)
Hydroceles usually heal independently without any treatment within the first year of life. Minimal invasive surgery may be recommended if the hydrocele persists for longer.
The procedure involves making a tiny cut in the lower abdomen or the scrotum. The fluid is then drained from around the testicle. The passage between the abdomen and the scrotum is closed so that the fluid cannot reform again in the future. This minimally invasive procedure does not usually involve any hospital stay.
There are no long-term side effects of having a hydrocele. A hydrocele does not affect the testicles, fertility, or the ability to have children in the future.
