Testicular Issues: Pain, Discomfort, and Fertility Concerns - Urology

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Testicular issues


I have one testicle larger than the other, and sometimes I experience sharp pain.
Occasionally, I feel a burning sensation and stinging while urinating.
My semen is very yellow and has particles in it, and it doesn't seem very thick.
After urinating, I often feel like there is residual urine, and the urethral opening is slightly red.
I haven't had any sexual intercourse.
Could this be inflammation, and could it lead to infertility?

Chen, 10~19 year old female. Ask Date: 2017/11/04

Dr. Du Shixi reply Urology


Hello: In addition to drinking more water and avoiding spicy and irritating foods, you should also get a urine test at the urology department of a hospital.
It's normal for one testicle to be larger than the other in most individuals.

Reply Date: 2017/11/04

More Info


It sounds like you are experiencing a range of symptoms that could indicate an underlying issue with your reproductive health. The symptoms you describe—unequal testicle size, pain, discomfort during urination, changes in semen quality, and redness at the urethral opening—are concerning and warrant a thorough evaluation by a healthcare professional.

Firstly, the difference in testicle size can be normal for some individuals, but if one testicle is significantly larger or smaller than the other, it could indicate a condition such as a hydrocele (fluid accumulation), varicocele (enlarged veins), or even a testicular mass. Pain in the testicles, especially if it is acute or associated with swelling, should not be ignored, as it could be a sign of conditions like epididymitis (inflammation of the epididymis), orchitis (inflammation of the testicle), or torsion (twisting of the testicle), which can lead to severe complications if not treated promptly.

The burning sensation and pain during urination, along with the yellow, grainy appearance of your semen, suggest a possible infection or inflammation in the urinary or reproductive tract. Conditions such as prostatitis (inflammation of the prostate gland) or urethritis (inflammation of the urethra) could be responsible for these symptoms. Infections in these areas can lead to discomfort and may also impact fertility by affecting sperm quality or transport.

The presence of residual urine after urination and redness at the urethral opening could indicate an obstruction or inflammation in the urinary tract. This could be due to an infection, but it may also be related to other issues such as a urinary stone or an anatomical abnormality.

In terms of fertility, any infection or inflammation in the reproductive system can potentially affect sperm production and quality. For example, infections can lead to changes in the seminal fluid, which may impact sperm motility and viability. If left untreated, these conditions could contribute to difficulties in conceiving.

Given your symptoms, it is crucial to seek medical attention as soon as possible. A urologist or a healthcare provider specializing in male reproductive health can perform a comprehensive evaluation, which may include a physical examination, urine tests, semen analysis, and possibly imaging studies to assess the health of your reproductive organs.
In the meantime, it is advisable to avoid any activities that could exacerbate your symptoms, such as heavy lifting or strenuous exercise, and to maintain good hydration. If you experience any worsening of symptoms, such as increased pain, fever, or swelling, seek immediate medical care.

In summary, while your symptoms could indicate an infection or inflammation that may impact fertility, a thorough medical evaluation is essential to determine the exact cause and appropriate treatment. Early intervention can help address any underlying issues and improve your overall reproductive health.

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