Both testicles descend into scrotum in a fetus usually occurring:

Appeared in: DSSSB 12 August 2024

Explanation

The final phase of testicular descent, from the inguinal canal into the scrotum, is a late-gestational event.
By 36 weeks, one or both testes are typically in the scrotum.
The process is considered complete by 40 weeks (full term), which is when both testes are expected to be in their final scrotal position.
This timing is hormonally regulated and guided by the gubernaculum, a ligamentous cord.

Option A: During the 28-32 week period, the testes are typically descending through the inguinal canal. They have not yet completed their journey into the scrotum.
Option B: At 20-24 weeks of gestation, the testes are still in the transabdominal phase of descent, located high in the abdomen and far from the scrotum.
Option D: This is an even earlier stage of fetal development. At 16-20 weeks, the testes are positioned on the posterior abdominal wall, and the process of descent has barely begun.

Clinical Relevance

Nursing practice connection: This is primarily an exam-oriented knowledge point with limited direct bedside application, so retain Fetal Development: Testicular Descent as background academic context rather than a clinical decision trigger.
The timing of testicular descent is clinically significant because its failure results in cryptorchidism (undescended testes).
Nurses performing newborn assessments must palpate the scrotum to confirm the presence of both testes. An empty scrotum requires follow-up.
Premature male infants are at a significantly higher risk for cryptorchidism (up to 30%) because they are born before the descent is complete.

How to Approach the Question

Identify the question as a factual recall question about a specific milestone in fetal development.
Recall that major organ and structural finalization, like testicular descent, often occurs in the third trimester, closer to term.
Analyze the options provided. Eliminate the earliest timeframes (16-20 and 20-24 weeks) as they are too early for such a late-stage event.
Differentiate between the start of the final descent (around 28-32 weeks) and its completion. The question asks when it 'occurs,' implying the final state.
Select the latest timeframe (36-40 weeks) as the most accurate period for the completion of descent for both testes into the scrotum.

Concept Tested & Keywords

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E6 Nelson Textbook of Pediatrics(2024) — Volume 2 pp. 197-199, 198-200, 1105-1107

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