Intermittent Testicular Pain: Causes and Concerns

Testicular pain

Hello, doctor: Recently, I have been experiencing intermittent sharp pain in my left testicle (though it's not extremely uncomfortable), and I have not had similar symptoms in the past.
About a week ago, I visited a nearby hospital for an examination, and the doctor found no issues upon palpation, and my urinalysis was normal.
However, similar symptoms have continued to occur over the past few days.
What could be the possible causes? Is it related to frequent masturbation (approximately every two days)? Thank you.

Niming, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2016/04/26

Dr. Li Xinyi reply Urology

Frequent masturbation may be related, but at your age (about every two days), it's not too concerning.
It could be neuropathic pain.
Supplementing with B vitamins is advisable, and it's important to get plenty of rest.
If you're worried, it's recommended to see a urologist for an examination and to discuss your concerns with a physician.

Reply Date: 2016/04/26

More Info

Intermittent testicular pain can be concerning, especially when it is a new symptom. Based on your description, it seems that you have experienced left-sided testicular pain that is not severe but occurs intermittently. You have already sought medical attention, and the examination did not reveal any significant issues, which is a positive sign. However, it is essential to consider various potential causes for your symptoms.

One common cause of testicular pain is epididymitis, which is an inflammation of the epididymis, the tube that stores and carries sperm. This condition can be caused by infections, including sexually transmitted infections (STIs) or urinary tract infections (UTIs). However, given that your urinalysis was normal, this may be less likely.
Another possibility is testicular torsion, which is a medical emergency that occurs when the spermatic cord becomes twisted, cutting off the blood supply to the testicle. This typically presents with severe pain and requires immediate medical attention. Since your pain is not severe and you have had a physical examination without findings suggestive of torsion, this is likely not the case.

Testicular pain can also be related to referred pain from other areas, such as the lower abdomen or groin. Conditions like inguinal hernias or issues with the prostate can sometimes manifest as testicular discomfort.
Regarding your question about the relationship between frequent masturbation and testicular pain, it is generally considered that masturbation itself does not cause testicular pain. However, excessive or aggressive masturbation could potentially lead to temporary discomfort or soreness in the testicular area. If you notice that your pain correlates with periods of increased sexual activity, it might be worth moderating your frequency to see if that alleviates your symptoms.

Stress and anxiety can also contribute to physical symptoms, including pain. If you are experiencing stress in other areas of your life, this could manifest as tension in the pelvic area, leading to discomfort.

Since your symptoms have persisted, it may be beneficial to follow up with a urologist for further evaluation. They may recommend additional tests, such as an ultrasound, to rule out any structural issues or conditions that may not have been apparent during the initial examination.
In summary, while your symptoms may not indicate a serious condition given the normal examination and urinalysis, it is essential to monitor the situation. If the pain worsens, becomes more frequent, or is accompanied by other symptoms such as swelling, redness, or fever, seek medical attention promptly. Maintaining open communication with your healthcare provider about your symptoms and any changes you notice will be crucial in managing your health effectively.

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