Testicular Pain

About Testicular Pain

Testicular pain can affect anyone with testicles at any age. The testicles are small, egg-shaped reproductive organs located inside the scrotum, a thin pouch of skin behind the penis. Pain can occur in one or both testicles, and in some cases, it may be referred pain from another area, such as the abdomen or groin.

Testicular pain can be acute, developing suddenly with sharp intensity and lasting for a short period, or chronic, gradually increasing and persisting for a longer duration. Even minor issues can cause significant discomfort since the testicles contain many sensitive nerves.

Symptoms of Testicular Pain

Testicular pain can range from mild discomfort to severe pain. Additional symptoms may develop, indicating the need for evaluation. Seek immediate medical attention if you experience sudden or severe pain, or pain accompanied by nausea or vomiting.

Symptoms associated with testicular pain may include:

• Abdominal pain
• Ache, discomfort, or throbbing sensation in one or both testicles
• Blood in the urine
• Bruising or discoloration of the scrotum
• Chills
• Difficulty passing urine
• Fever
• Frequent urination
• Groin pain
• Pain or burning during urination
• Swelling or enlargement of the testicles
• Tenderness or sensitivity to touch

Risk Factors for Testicular Pain

Certain factors may increase the likelihood of experiencing testicular pain. These can range from lifestyle habits to underlying health conditions.

Risk factors for testicular pain may include:

• Aging
• Complications from a previous injury
• Family history of testicular conditions
• High-risk sexual behavior
• Lack of proper protection during sports
• Medical history of hernia or testicular torsion
• Poor hygiene practices
• Previous history of urinary tract infections (UTIs)
• Testicular cancer
• Undescended testicles

Treating Testicular Pain at UT Health Austin

While at-home remedies are often the first line of treatment for testicular pain, treatment may involve a combination of lifestyle changes and medical or surgical intervention. Options may include medications, such as pain relievers or antibiotics for infections, as well as lifestyle adjustments like rest and scrotal elevation. For chronic pain, counseling or therapy may help address underlying emotional or psychological factors. In some cases, more invasive treatments, such as surgery, may be necessary. Your care team will guide you through the risks, benefits, and what to expect during the treatment and recovery process.

Care Team Approach

At UT Health Austin, we take a multidisciplinary approach to your care. This means you will benefit from the expertise of multiple specialists across a variety of disciplines caring for you in one place to avoid having to schedule multiple appointments with providers at locations all over the city. Your care team will include a board-certified and fellowship-trained urologist with extensive experience in the medical and surgical treatment of the urinary system and the male genital tract who works alongside a team of health experts to help you achieve the best possible outcomes and improve your overall quality of life. We also collaborate with our colleagues at the Dell Medical School and The University of Texas at Austin to utilize the latest research, diagnostic, and treatment techniques, allowing us to deliver highly specialized procedures and offer personalized treatment options with a focus on increasing overall quality of life. We are committed to communicating and coordinating your care with your other healthcare providers to ensure that we are providing you with comprehensive, whole-person care.

Learn More About Your Care Team