Testicle pain
Alternative Names
Pain - testicle(s)
Home Care
Some causes of testicle pain, including testicular torsion, can lead to infertility if not treated promptly. Infections also should be examined and treated right away. If the infection is caused by a bacteria, your doctor will prescribe an antibiotic.
For non-urgent causes of testicle pain such as minor injuries and fluid collection, the following home care steps may reduce discomfort and swelling. These steps will also help if you have an infection.
- Provide support to the scrotum by wearing an athletic supporter.
- Apply ice to the scrotum.
- Take warm baths if there are signs of inflammation.
- While lying down, place a rolled towel under your scrotum.
- Try over-the-counter pain relievers, like acetaminophen or ibuprofen. DO NOT give aspirin to children.
Call your health care provider if
Call your doctor immediately or go to an emergency room if:
- Your pain is severe or sudden
- You have had an injury or trauma to the scrotum, and you still have pain or swelling after one hour
- Your pain is accompanied by nausea or vomiting
Also call your doctor right away if:
- You feel a lump in the scrotum
- You have a fever
- Your scrotum is warm, tender to the touch, or red
- You have been in contact with someone who has the mumps
What to expect at your health care provider's office
Your doctor will perform a physical examination with a focus on the groin, testicles, and abdomen. To help diagnose the cause of the pain, your doctor will ask medical history questions such as:
- How long have you had testicular pain?
- Is the pain in one testicle or both?
- Exactly where does it hurt?
- Did the pain begin suddenly or come on gradually?
- Is the pain constant or intermittent?
- How severe is the pain?
- Is the pain getting worse or better?
- Does the pain extend into your abdomen or back?
- Have you had any recent injuries or infections?
- Have you ever had a sexually transmitted disease?
- What makes the pain worse?
- Does anything help relieve the pain?
- Do you have any other symptoms like swelling, redness, change in the color of your urine, fever, or unintentional weight loss?
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