Hydrocele in Babies: Causes, Symptoms, and Treatment Options

If you've noticed swelling in your baby's scrotum, it might be a condition called hydrocele. While it may look concerning, hydrocele is usually harmless and often goes away on its own. In this article, we'll explain what hydrocele is, its causes, symptoms, and treatment options.

What is a Hydrocele?

A hydrocele is a swelling in the scrotum, the thin sac that holds the testicles. It occurs when too much fluid builds up inside the scrotum. Hydrocele is most common in newborns, but it can affect anyone with a scrotum.

Causes of Hydrocele

Hydrocele can develop before a baby is born. As the testicles descend from the belly into the scrotum, a sac of fluid accompanies each testicle. Normally, the sac closes and the fluid is absorbed by the body. However, sometimes this process doesn't occur as it should, leading to a hydrocele.

There are two types of hydrocele:

• Noncommunicating hydrocele: The sac closes, but the fluid isn't absorbed.

• Communicating hydrocele: The sac doesn't seal, allowing the scrotum to swell over time.

Premature babies are more likely to develop a hydrocele.

Symptoms of Hydrocele

The main symptom of a hydrocele is a swollen scrotum, which is usually painless. However, it's essential to consult a pediatrician to rule out other health issues that may cause swelling, such as an infection, tumor, or hernia.

A noncommunicating hydrocele typically maintains a consistent size, while a communicating hydrocele may fluctuate in size throughout the day and can be gently squeezed to move the fluid into the belly.

Diagnosing Hydrocele

To diagnose a hydrocele, your pediatrician will perform a physical exam, checking the scrotum for fluid, tenderness, and transparency. They may also order blood tests and an ultrasound to rule out other causes of swelling.

Treatment Options for Hydrocele

In most cases, a hydrocele resolves on its own before a baby's first birthday. If it persists or grows larger, a pediatrician may refer you to a urologist. For communicating hydroceles, surgery is usually recommended without waiting for spontaneous resolution.

The surgical procedure to remove a hydrocele, called a hydrocelectomy, involves draining the fluid and closing the sac. The operation is brief, and your baby can go home the same day. After surgery, keep the area clean and dry, following the care instructions provided by the medical team.

Potential Complications of Hydrocele

While hydrocele is generally harmless and doesn't affect fertility, in rare cases, it may indicate a more serious problem with the testicles. Potential complications include:

• Infection or tumor, which could impact sperm production or function

• Trauma

• Inguinal hernia, a condition where a loop of intestine protrudes through a weak spot in the abdominal wall

If you have any concerns about your baby's hydrocele or overall health, don't hesitate to consult your pediatrician. With proper care and monitoring, most babies with hydrocele grow up healthy and happy.

For more information on hydrocele and other common childhood conditions, visit HealthyChildren.org or KidsHealth.org.