Popstar is back with the tips (and so much more than just the tip) on what could be busting your bollocks and causing you testicular pain. Well, boys, you may need to brace yourself for some wince-worthy content. But the better we get to know our gonads, the better we keep our precious family jewels safe.
Causes of Testicular Pain
1. Trauma or Injury
Sometimes life can be like a swift kick in the dick. A saying that came about probably because there is truly nothing worse than any sort of blow to the balls. Even the jestful “jimmy tap” in the high school halls could send a boy to their knees. It may seem like a no-brainer but testicular pain can be caused by physical trauma. Whether it be a sports-related injury or a poor attempt at parkour, even the slightest tap to the testes can cause pain.
2. Infection
While orchitis may sound like some sort of exotic house plant, suitable for a “welcome to the neighborhood” gift, it is, in fact, inflammation or infection of the testes. Infection of the testicles, or their surrounding structures, can obviously cause pain or discomfort. Since some of these infections are bacterial in nature, they can sometimes be given the boot with antibiotics. A beacon of hope when it comes to inflamed balls.
3. Hernia
An inguinal hernia, caused by tissue pushing through a weak spot in the groin muscle, can of course, be cause for ball-ache, especially if it protrudes through the scrotum. Some hernias can get worse over time and may eventually require surgical intervention.
4. Kidney Stones
When we talk about being a stoner, I’m sure men would almost unanimously vote for kush over kidney stones. Kidney stones are salt and mineral deposits that painfully pass through the urethra. The pain from kidney stones can radiate to the groin and testicular area, causing discomfort. Staying hydrated and drinking lots of fluid can aid in the passing of kidney stones and prevent new ones from forming. They can also be broken up using shockwave therapy or lasers or be surgically removed.
5. Torsion
Another saying I’m sure we are a little more familiar with is “don’t get your balls in a twist.” While it may be a cheeky euphemism for someone being in their feelings, in actuality, getting your balls in a twist is no joking matter. It could be torsion! Testicular torsion is a medical emergency in which the spermatic cord gets twisted, cutting off blood flow to the testes. It can result in sudden, severe pain, swelling and requires surgery. Without medical intervention, you could find yourself short of a family jewel.
6. Varicocele
While we are on the topic of blood flow to the balls, or lack thereof, varicoceles can also cause testicular pain. Although it may sound like a Michelin star Italian restaurant, varicoceles involve swelling of the veins in the scrotum. Think varicose veins, but on your balls. No bueno. Varicoceles can cause a dull ache, heaviness to the testicle, and usually appears on the left side.
7. Referred Pain
Referred pain refers (see what we did there?) to an injury in one area of the body, but the pain is felt in another. There are various conditions unrelated to the testes that can really bust your balls. A herniated disc or even prostatitis (inflammation of the prostate) can cause pain that radiates to your rocks.
8. Cancer
The big C. While this is probably the least likely reason for your testicular pain, persistent pain or discomfort could be the result of testicular cancer. Other signs to be on the lookout for are bumps and swelling. To learn how to do a self wellness check on your cojones, check out our step by step guide here.
Testicular pain isn’t always the result of some underlying health issue leading to the detriment of your danglers. Perhaps you slept on your stones wrong or you simply have blue balls and need to “release the poison” as they say. That being said, if you are experiencing persistent or excruciating testicular pain, seek medical treatment right away, and preserve your precious family jewels!
Dr. Joshua Gonzalez
Dr. Joshua Gonzalez is a board-certified urologist who is fellowship-trained in Sexual Medicine and specializes in the management of male and female sexual dysfunctions. He completed his medical education at Columbia University and his urological residency at the Mount Sinai Medical Center. Throughout his career, Dr. Gonzalez has focused on advocating for sexual health and providing improved healthcare to the LGBTQ+ community.
