Testicular discomfort is something many men experience at some point in their lives. It can feel like aching, heaviness, or sharp pain in one or both testicles. While it may be caused by something minor, it can also be a sign of a more serious issue. Knowing the possible reasons can help you decide when to rest, when to use home care, and when to see a doctor.
Here are five common reasons for testicular discomfort:
1. Injury or Trauma
The most obvious cause of testicular pain is a direct injury. Whether it’s from a sports accident, a fall, or even rough activity, a hit to the testicles can cause intense discomfort.
Even a mild bump can cause pain due to how sensitive the area is. Most of the time, the pain goes away after some rest and cold compresses. But if the pain lasts more than an hour or gets worse, you should see a doctor.
Dr. Tobias Köhler, a urologist at Mayo Clinic, says, “If testicular pain is severe, prolonged, or accompanied by swelling, it should never be ignored.”
2. Epididymitis (Inflammation of the Epididymis)
The epididymis is a coiled tube at the back of the testicle that stores and carries sperm. If it becomes inflamed—usually from a bacterial infection—it can cause pain, swelling, and warmth.
In younger men, epididymitis is often caused by sexually transmitted infections (STIs) like chlamydia or gonorrhea. In older men, it may be due to a urinary tract infection or problems from an enlarged prostate.
Other symptoms may include:
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Pain when urinating
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Fever
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A heavy feeling in the testicle
This condition is treatable with antibiotics. Early treatment helps prevent long-term damage.
3. Testicular Torsion (Twisted Testicle)
This is a medical emergency. Testicular torsion happens when the spermatic cord (which brings blood to the testicle) twists, cutting off blood flow.
It causes sudden, severe pain and swelling. It can also lead to nausea and vomiting. Torsion usually affects teenagers and young men, but it can happen at any age.
“Testicular torsion is a surgical emergency. If not treated within six hours, there’s a risk of losing the testicle,” warns Dr. Ajay Nangia, a professor of urology at the University of Kansas Medical Center.
If you ever have sudden testicular pain, go to the emergency room immediately.
4. Varicocele (Enlarged Veins in the Scrotum)
A varicocele is a swelling of the veins inside the scrotum. It’s similar to varicose veins in the legs. These enlarged veins can cause a dull ache, especially after standing or exercising for a long time.
Varicoceles are common and often develop during puberty. They usually affect the left testicle more than the right because of how veins are positioned.
While varicoceles aren’t always harmful, they can affect fertility in some men. If you’re trying to conceive and have discomfort or a “bag of worms” feeling in the scrotum, it’s worth checking with a doctor.
5. Inguinal Hernia
An inguinal hernia happens when part of the intestine pushes through a weak spot in the lower belly wall. This can cause a bulge near the groin or scrotum and may lead to testicular discomfort.
The pain often gets worse when lifting, coughing, or standing. You might notice the bulge goes away when lying down.
Mild hernias may not cause much pain, but larger ones can be painful and may need surgery. In rare cases, the hernia can cut off blood flow to the intestine, which is a medical emergency.
When to See a Doctor
Some testicular pain can go away with rest, ice, and over-the-counter medicine. But see a doctor right away if you experience:
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Sudden, severe testicle pain
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Swelling in one or both testicles
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Fever or chills with the pain
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Blood in urine
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Pain that lasts more than a few days
Final Thoughts
Testicular discomfort can come from many causes, from mild injury to serious conditions like torsion or infection. Don’t ignore pain in that area. Your body is telling you something. When in doubt, check it out.
It’s always better to get a quick check-up than to risk a more serious problem later on. As doctors often say: “Pain down there? Don’t delay—get it checked today.”
