Dismiss Modal

Symptoms

Testicular Pain, Unclear Cause

Choose a preferred language

You have had pain in one or both testicles. Based on your exam today, the exact cause of your pain is not certain. But your condition doesn't seem to be dangerous. Testicles are very sensitive. Even a small injury can cause quite a bit of pain. Other possible causes of testicular pain include kidney stones, cysts, mumps, inflammatory conditions, chronic conditions, hernia, infection, and a twisted testicle.

You may need some tests done to rule out an underlying problem causing the pain. Nothing conclusive was found today. Most likely, the pain will go away on its own. If it doesn’t, you may need more tests.

Location of testicles within scrotum.


Home care

Medicine may be prescribed to help relieve pain and swelling. This may be an over-the-counter pain reliever or prescription pain medicine. Take all medicine as directed.

Here are some general care guidelines:

  • To relieve pain and swelling, apply an ice pack wrapped in a thin towel for 10 minutes at a time. Continue this on and off for 1 to 2 days. To make an ice pack, put ice cubes in a plastic bag that seals at the top. Wrap the bag in a thin towel. Don't put ice or an ice pack directly on the skin.

  • When lying down, place a small, rolled towel under your scrotum. When moving around, wear a jockstrap (athletic supporter) or supportive underwear. These will help support and protect your testicles.

  • If it hurts to walk, walk as little as possible until you feel better.

  • Don't do any strenuous activity until you feel better.

  • Don't have sex until you feel better.

  • If you have severe pain in the testicle, get care right away. Delay may lead to lifelong (permanent) loss of the testicle’s function.


Follow-up care

Follow up with your health care provider as advised.


When to get medical advice

Contact your health care provider right away if any of these occur:

  • Fever of 100.4°F (38°C) or higher, or as advised by your provider

  • Pain gets worse or you have severe pain

  • Swollen testicle or scrotum

  • A lump in the scrotum

  • Warm and red scrotum (signs of infection)

  • Nausea and vomiting

  • Belly pain or swelling

  • Trouble peeing

  • Leg numbness or weakness

  • Testicle shrinks

  • Blood in your urine

Featured in

© 2000-2025 The StayWell Company, LLC. All rights reserved. This information is not intended as a substitute for professional medical care. Always follow your healthcare professional's instructions.
Related Articles
Read more →
Oncology
Testicular Cancer: Symptoms

If you have testicular cancer, you may notice certain warning signs, or symptoms. You can also have testicular cancer without noticing any symptoms.

Read more →
Urology
Epididymitis

Epididymitis is often caused by an infection. Treatment is with antibiotics, and anti-inflammatory and pain medicines. Read on for details on how to care for yourself or your child at home.

Read more →
Urgent Care
Bruise of the Testicles or Scrotum

A testicle or scrotum contusion (bruise) can cause skin discoloration and swelling. The area may be very painful, which can cause nausea and trouble walking.

Read more →
Urology
Testicular Appendage Torsion

Testicular appendage torsion is the twisting of a small piece of tissue above a testicle. The appendage doesn't have a function in the body. But it can twist and cause pain and swelling that gets worse over time. It's not the same as testicular torsion.