Congenital hydrocele

A hydrocele (say "HY-druh-seel") is a buildup of watery fluid around one or both testicles. It causes the scrotum or groin area to swell.

Many baby boys are born with this condition. The swelling it causes may look scary, but it is usually not a problem. It will probably go away by the time your baby is 2 years old.

The usual symptom of a congenital hydrocele is a swollen scrotum. The swelling does not hurt. If your child seems to be in pain, call the doctor. Pain may mean that your child has a hernia or other problem.

Doctors diagnose a congenital hydrocele during a physical exam that includes questions about the child's health. The swelling is often easy to see, so the hydrocele is typically not hard to identify. But the doctor will want to rule out other conditions.

Most of the time, all you need to do is watch for changes in the swelling. If the swelling gets bigger or if it comes and goes, tell your doctor.

Your child may need surgery to remove the fluid if:

• Your child still has the hydrocele at age 2.
• The swelling comes and goes.
• The swelling causes pain.
• The swelling gets worse.

If surgery is needed, the doctor or nurse will give your child medicine to make your child sleep. A small cut (incision) will be made in the groin area. At the end of the surgery, the cut will be stitched up. The doctor may ask you if you want him or her to check the opposite groin area for a hydrocele or other problem during the same surgery. After surgery, you'll need to care for the groin incision and watch for signs of infection.

• Most of the time, all you need to do is watch for any changes in the swelling.