Why might my son need a testes ultrasound?
The most common reasons are:
- A testicle that cannot be felt in the scrotum (undescended or retractile)
- A swelling of the scrotum, which may be a hydrocele or a hernia
- A lump, or one side looking larger than the other
- Discomfort or aching that is not an emergency
- Follow-up of something found before
When does my son need urgent care instead?
Sudden, severe pain in the testicle or scrotum, especially with swelling, redness, vomiting or tummy pain, can be testicular torsion. This is an emergency: go to A&E or call 999 immediately. Do not book a scan.
Torsion needs surgery within hours to save the testicle. If you are unsure, call us first and we will always tell you plainly if you need A&E.
What does the scan check for?
A paediatric testes ultrasound answers the common questions directly:
- The location of each testis: scrotum, groin canal or higher
- The size of both testes, compared
- Blood flow to each testis, using Colour Doppler
- Fluid (hydrocele), hernia or a solid lump
- Varicoceles in older boys
My son’s testicle has not descended: what does the scan do?
It answers the two questions that decide what happens next: where the testis is, and how it looks. Most undescended testes sit in the groin canal and are found easily; the scan documents the position and size so the surgeon can plan. A testis that cannot be found by ultrasound may sit inside the tummy, which the surgeon will assess.
Does an undescended testicle affect fertility or cancer risk?
A testicle that stays undescended is kept warmer than it should be, which over time can reduce sperm production and slightly raises the risk of testicular cancer later in life. Treating it early, with surgery in the first year or so, protects fertility as far as possible and brings the testicle into the scrotum where it can be checked easily in adulthood. The scan helps your surgeon plan that treatment.
What is a retractile testicle?
A retractile testis moves up into the groin, often when a child is cold or anxious, but can be brought down into the scrotum and stays there for a while. It is common, usually normal and improves with age, though it should be checked periodically because a small number later stay up. The scan helps tell retractile from truly undescended.
When should an undescended testicle be treated?
Many testicles that are undescended at birth come down by themselves in the first few months. If a testicle has not come down by around three to six months of age, it is unlikely to descend by itself. UK guidance recommends surgery, called an orchidopexy, between six and twelve months of age, and certainly before eighteen months, to protect future fertility and make the testicle easier to check later in life.
What is a hydrocele in a baby or child?
A hydrocele is a collection of fluid around the testicle, making the scrotum look swollen. It is very common in baby boys, is painless, and most disappear by themselves by the age of one or two. A hydrocele that persists, grows or changes size during the day may be linked to a hernia, which the scan can show.
What are the common findings, and what do they mean?
Most scans are reassuring: two normal testes, a small hydrocele that will settle, or a retractile testis. Findings that need a specialist include a truly undescended testis, an inguinal hernia, which needs a planned operation, and rarely a solid lump. Your specialist explains exactly what was seen and what it means.
How does a boy testes ultrasound work?
Your son lies on his back while a small probe with warm gel moves gently over the scrotum and groin. The specialist locates and measures each testis and uses Colour Doppler to see the blood flow. The scan is quick, painless and uses no radiation.
Is a testes ultrasound safe for my child?
Yes. Ultrasound uses sound waves, not radiation, and needs no needles or sedation. It is the standard first test for scrotal and testicular concerns in children because it is so gentle, and it can be repeated whenever follow-up is needed.
Is the scan embarrassing for my son?
We keep it brief, matter-of-fact and dignified. A parent stays throughout, a towel keeps everything covered except the small area being scanned, and the specialist explains things at your son’s level. Older boys can choose whether a parent stays in the room.
How should I prepare my child for the scan?
No special preparation is needed. Explain simply that a doctor will look at his tummy and private area with a camera that uses jelly and does not hurt. Bring a favourite toy or a tablet if it helps, and dress him in clothes that are easy to remove.
How long does a boy testes ultrasound take?
The scan usually takes around fifteen minutes. Allow half an hour for the appointment, so there is time to settle your son and talk through the results.
How much does a private boy testes ultrasound cost?
At Harley Street Ultrasound a private boy testes ultrasound costs £350, all fees inclusive: the scan, the specialist’s time and your written report. Same-day or next-day appointments are usually available, with the results explained before you leave.
What if you find something?
Your specialist tells you in the room, in plain English, and explains exactly what it means. You will never be sent home to wait for a letter. Most findings are benign and need nothing more than a sensible review date.
Anything that does need attention gets a clear, objective recommendation in your report: monitor, test further, or refer. Follow-up tests can usually be arranged at 99 Harley Street, often the same week, and those results are also explained to you personally.
Do I need a referral?
No. Harley Street Ultrasound is a private clinic, so you can book a paediatric testicular ultrasound in London directly online or by phone. No GP letter, no waiting list, and same-day or next-day appointments are usually available. If you are searching for a paediatric testicular ultrasound near me from anywhere in central London, we are at 99 Harley Street, a short walk from Regent’s Park and Oxford Circus stations.
If you are wondering how much a private paediatric testicular ultrasound costs, the answer is published before you book: £350, all fees inclusive: the examination, the specialist’s time, your written report and your images. Insured patients should bring a referral or authorisation number if their policy requires one.
How soon will I have the written report?
Usually the same day: a Harley Street paediatric testicular ultrasound comes with same-day results as standard, and you will already know the findings, because they are explained to you on screen during the appointment.
The written report is prepared by the specialist team and published to your secure patient portal together with your images, with measurements and a clear recommendation, ready to share with your GP or specialist.
What happens after the scan?
Nothing special: there is no aftercare. Your child can feed, eat, play and go back to nursery or school straight away. Ultrasound uses sound waves, not radiation, so it can be repeated safely whenever follow-up is needed. If the results suggest a next step, your specialist explains it to you before you leave.
Can I still use the NHS afterwards?
Yes: completely. Coming to us privately never affects your NHS care. Our job is to get you answers quickly; if anything needs urgent attention, your specialist writes to your NHS GP recommending an urgent appointment, so you re-enter the NHS pathway with a diagnosis already in hand rather than joining the queue from the start.
