Inguinal Hernia and Hydrocele

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In boys, the testicles develop in the belly and in the weeks before birth, they will typically “drop” into their normal position in the scrotum. In some cases, the tunnel created by the testicle on its journey to the scrotum does not close completely allowing fluid and sometimes bowel to move freely between the scrotum and belly. The fluid around the testicle is called a hydrocele. The open connection is called an inguinal hernia.

Most inguinal hernias and hydroceles will resolve on their own over the first 6-12 months of life. In some cases, however, the connection becomes larger and does not correct itself, putting your son at risk of having bowel or other organs get trapped in the open tunnel. Your pediatric urologist will be able to closely examine your son and determine when and if the hernia/hydrocele requires surgical correction.

Hydroceles and inguinal hernias

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Inguinal Hernia and Hydrocele

How is it treated?

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