YOUR CHILD’S HEALTH CARE/ GENITAL, GROIN AND URINARY TRACT PROBLEMS: SCROTAL SWELLING

Hydrocoele

A hydrocoele is a soft swelling in the scrotum caused by a collection of fluid around the testicle. It does not cause pain. The fluid has been pushed down into the scrotum via a channel connected to the abdominal cavity. A hydrocoele may often be present at birth, and usually disappears after the child is 1 year old. It rarely needs any surgical intervention. If your child has any scrotal swelling, it is advisable to have your doctor check it. Sometimes hernias can be present at the same time as a hydrocoele.

Varicocoele

A varicocoele usually occurs after puberty. It is an abnormal enlargement of the veins around the testicle. It generally presents as a swelling around the testicle, usually the left one. A varicoele feels like a bundle of worms. If not treated sperm production may be affected. Treatment is surgical, and you should consult your doctor if you suspect that your child has a varicocoele.

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