Diseases and Conditions
Hydrocele
Baby boys
Overview
Symptoms
Causes
Risk factors
Complications
Diagnosis
Treatment
Preparing for an appointment
Risk factors
Most hydroceles are present at birth. At least 5 percent of newborn boys have a hydrocele. Babies who are born prematurely have a higher risk of having a hydrocele.
Risk factors for developing a hydrocele later in life include:
- Injury or inflammation to the scrotum
- Infection, including a sexually transmitted infection (STI)
