Edema of the genitalia in newborn males generally dissipates after how many days?

The correct answer is that edema of the genitalia in newborn males generally dissipates after 3 days. This is due to the normal physiological changes that occur in neonates, particularly in response to hormonal shifts after birth. Newborn males may experience transient scrotal swelling due to fluid accumulation, which is usually a result of the process of labor, delivery, and the effects of maternal hormones.

Typically, this edema resolves within a few days as the body adjusts to the new environment outside the womb and excess fluid is reabsorbed. Monitoring for excessive edema is important, but in most cases, this swelling is benign and self-limiting.

The other timeframes presented, such as 1 day, 5 days, and 7 days, do not align with the common clinical observations regarding the timing of edema resolution in this population. Initial observations may indicate some reduction in swelling within the first day, but it is on the third day that a significant resolution is usually noted. After five to seven days, any persistent edema would warrant further evaluation to rule out underlying concerns.