Testicular Discomfort: Size, Hardness, and Possible Causes

Q: Testicular Discomfort: Size, Hardness, and Possible Causes

Hello： The size and firmness of each person's testicles can vary, and even within the same individual, there can be differences between the left and right. <br>It's important to pay attention to lifestyle factors, such as avoiding prolonged sitting or standing, and avoiding exces

Testicular discomfort and size hardness?

Previously, I experienced a sensation of heaviness and burning in my left testicle, along with a burning sensation in my groin, so I went to the hospital for a consultation.
The doctor asked me to hold my breath and cough to check if there were any visible blood vessels in both testicles.
An X-ray of the groin and a urinalysis were performed, both of which came back normal.
It felt like the examination wasn't very thorough; the doctor only looked at both testicles and said there was no varicocele.
When I asked the doctor why I was experiencing the burning sensation in my testicle and groin, he said that the sensations were unrelated and suggested it might be nerve pain.
He then prescribed medication for muscle stiffness and anti-inflammatory pain relievers (stating that the pain would subside with medication).
After a few days, since the burning sensation in my groin had not improved, I returned for a follow-up.
The doctor reiterated that the previous tests were normal and did not suggest any further examinations, advising me not to focus too much on the area.
Later, he prescribed medication to promote peripheral circulation and relieve gastrointestinal and urinary tract spasms.
After taking those medications for a few days, the burning sensation disappeared.
However, I still felt uneasy about the size and firmness of my testicles.
Upon self-examination, I found that the length of my testicles was approximately 3 to 4 centimeters, with the left side feeling slightly smaller than the right.
Additionally, the left testicle felt softer compared to the right, which seemed to lack the firmness I expected.
I am concerned about whether the firmness of the right testicle is normal.
What is considered a normal size and firmness? Does masturbation affect the firmness of the testicles?

AJ, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2019/10/29

Dr. Du Shixi reply Urology

Hello: The size and firmness of each person's testicles can vary, and even within the same individual, there can be differences between the left and right.
It's important to pay attention to lifestyle factors, such as avoiding prolonged sitting or standing, and avoiding excessive straining in the abdominal area.
Additionally, underwear should not be too tight.
If you have concerns about your testicles, it is advisable to visit a urology department for an examination.
Reasonable masturbation should not have any negative effects.
Wishing you good health.

Reply Date: 2019/10/29

More Info

Testicular discomfort can be a concerning issue for many individuals, and understanding the potential causes and implications is crucial for proper management. Based on your description, it appears you have experienced a burning sensation in the left testicle and groin area, which has prompted medical evaluations including imaging and urinalysis. The initial assessments indicated no significant abnormalities, such as varicocele, and you were prescribed medications to alleviate muscle stiffness and inflammation.

Understanding Testicular Size and Hardness
Normal testicular size can vary among individuals, but generally, adult testicles measure about 3 to 5 centimeters in length and 2 to 3 centimeters in width. It's not uncommon for one testicle to be slightly larger or hang lower than the other; this asymmetry is typically normal. However, significant changes in size, shape, or hardness can be indicative of underlying issues.

Hardness is an essential factor in assessing testicular health. Normal testicles should feel firm but not hard. A testicle that feels softer than usual may not necessarily indicate a problem, but if there is a noticeable change in consistency or if it feels unusually hard, it could warrant further investigation.

Possible Causes of Discomfort
1. Epididymitis: Inflammation of the epididymis can cause discomfort and swelling. This condition is often associated with infections, including sexually transmitted infections (STIs).

2. Orchitis: Inflammation of the testicle itself, which can occur due to viral or bacterial infections.

3. Hernia: An inguinal hernia can cause discomfort in the groin and may radiate to the testicles.

4. Nerve Pain: As your doctor suggested, nerve-related issues can lead to sensations of burning or discomfort in the groin and testicular area.

5. Varicocele: While your doctor did not find evidence of this, it is a common condition where veins in the scrotum become enlarged, leading to discomfort.

6. Testicular Torsion: A medical emergency where the spermatic cord becomes twisted, cutting off blood supply to the testicle. This typically presents with severe pain and requires immediate attention.

Impact of Masturbation
Masturbation is a normal sexual activity and does not inherently affect the size or hardness of the testicles. However, excessive or aggressive masturbation can lead to temporary discomfort or soreness. If you notice persistent changes in testicular consistency or discomfort following masturbation, it may be worth discussing with a healthcare provider.

When to Seek Further Evaluation
If you continue to experience discomfort, changes in size or hardness, or if you notice any additional symptoms such as swelling, lumps, or pain that worsens, it is essential to follow up with a healthcare provider. They may recommend further imaging studies, such as an ultrasound, to assess for any underlying conditions that may not have been detected during the initial examination.

In conclusion, while your initial evaluations have returned normal results, ongoing symptoms warrant continued observation and possibly further investigation. It is crucial to communicate openly with your healthcare provider about your concerns and any changes you observe. Remember, early detection and intervention can significantly impact outcomes in testicular health.

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