Noticing swelling in your baby’s scrotum can be worrying, even if your little one seems happy and healthy. One common cause is a hydrocele, a small pocket of fluid around the testicle. The good news? Most hydroceles are harmless and often resolve on their own as your baby grows.
This article explains what a hydrocele looks like, how to tell if it’s improving, and what steps parents can take while keeping their baby safe and comfortable.
What Is a Hydrocele?
A hydrocele occurs when fluid collects around one or both testicles. This can make the scrotum appear slightly larger on one side. Most hydroceles are soft, smooth, and painless, and your baby usually shows no signs of discomfort.
Hydroceles are common, occurring in about 1 in 10 newborn boys, and they often resolve naturally by the time a child is around 12 months old.
Think of it like a tiny water balloon around the testicle. Over time, the fluid slowly gets reabsorbed, and the swelling gradually decreases.
Why Does My Baby Have a Hydrocele?
Hydroceles usually happen because the processus vaginalis, a small channel in the groin area, doesn’t fully close before birth. This allows fluid to collect around the testicle.
Most of the time, the condition is benign, meaning it isn’t harmful. Unlike an inguinal hernia, which requires urgent attention, hydroceles rarely cause pain or complications.
Signs Your Baby’s Hydrocele Is Improving
Parents naturally want reassurance. Here are the signs that a hydrocele is resolving on its own:
- Gradual shrinking: The swelling slowly becomes smaller over weeks or months.
- Softness remains: The scrotum stays soft and painless.
- Normal activity: Your baby continues to feed, sleep, and play normally.
- Stable appearance: The swelling doesn’t suddenly increase or become red, firm, or tender.
Keeping a photo diary or jotting down notes can help you track changes over time and give peace of mind.
Practical Tips for Parents
Here are some simple steps you can take while your baby grows:
- Observe, don’t panic: Most hydroceles resolve naturally.
- Track changes: Note size, softness, and any changes in appearance.
- Watch for warning signs: Seek evaluation if the swelling becomes firm, red, or painful.
- Maintain pediatric checkups: Your doctor can monitor the hydrocele and provide guidance.
These steps let you monitor improvement while giving your baby time for natural resolution.
When to See a Doctor
While hydroceles are generally harmless, contact your pediatrician if you notice:
- Swelling that suddenly increases or becomes firm
- Redness, tenderness, or signs of pain
- Persistence beyond 12–18 months
- Bilateral swelling or other unusual changes
Early evaluation helps rule out conditions that require treatment, such as an inguinal hernia or infection.
Treatment Options
Most hydroceles don’t require treatment. However, in cases where the swelling persists or causes concern, a pediatric urologist may recommend surgery. This procedure is usually simple and safe, with excellent outcomes.
Knowing there’s a plan in place can reassure parents while the hydrocele resolves naturally in most infants.
Interesting Facts About Hydroceles
- Hydroceles are almost always painless, even if they look large.
- Swelling can change in size throughout the day.
- They are common in newborns, and most resolve by 12 months of age without intervention.
The Bottom Line
Most infant hydroceles are harmless and self-limiting. By monitoring swelling and looking for the signs listed above, parents can feel reassured that their baby is healthy and comfortable.
If the swelling persists, grows, or causes discomfort, contact Dr. Joe Gleason, our Pediatric Urologist, for a thorough evaluation and personalized care plan. Early guidance ensures the best outcomes for your child’s health and your peace of mind.
