Left Testicular Pain: Causes and Concerns - Urology

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Dull pain in the left testicle?


Hello doctor, I have been experiencing this issue for about a week.
When I am sitting on the couch or in a chair, I often feel a dull pain in my left testicle, like it is being gently squeezed.
After doing some research, I am worried it might be a varicocele, but regardless of whether I exert myself or not, I cannot see (or feel) any swollen veins on the left side of my scrotum.
Additionally, after taking a hot shower, I always notice that my right testicle hangs slightly lower than my left, by less than 1 cm, and the right testicle seems to be positioned more forward and possibly larger than the left.
When I adjust my underwear during the pain, it usually subsides within a few minutes, but it occurs several times throughout the day.
What could be wrong with me? Will my habit of masturbating once every 1-2 days make it worse? Also, does masturbation lead to varicocele? Does being able to achieve morning erections indicate that I am not over-masturbating? Furthermore, I can easily retract my foreskin during masturbation (though I'm not sure if I retract it fully), but I feel tightness after ejaculation.
Is this normal? Thank you, doctor.

Gaozhongsheng, 10~19 year old female. Ask Date: 2021/03/15

Dr. Du Shixi reply Urology


Hello: 1) You should seek medical attention from a urologist at the hospital.
2) DIY (do-it-yourself) and varicocele are not closely related; just because you can achieve morning erections does not mean you are not over-masturbating.
3) I can easily retract my foreskin during masturbation (though I'm not sure if I pull it all the way back), but I feel tightness after ejaculation.
Is this normal? -- This is normal.
Wishing you good health.

Reply Date: 2021/03/15

More Info


Left testicular pain can be concerning and may arise from various causes. Based on your description, it seems you are experiencing intermittent discomfort in the left testicle, which can feel like a gentle pulling sensation. This type of pain can be attributed to several factors, and it’s essential to consider both benign and more serious conditions.

One potential cause of left testicular pain is testicular torsion, which is a medical emergency that occurs when the spermatic cord becomes twisted, cutting off the blood supply to the testicle. However, this condition typically presents with severe, sudden pain and swelling, which does not seem to match your symptoms.
Another possibility is epididymitis, an inflammation of the epididymis, often caused by infection. This condition can lead to pain and swelling in the affected testicle. If you have any accompanying symptoms such as fever, chills, or discharge, it would be prudent to seek medical attention.

You mentioned concerns about varicocele, which is an enlargement of the veins within the scrotum. While varicocele can cause a dull, aching pain that may worsen with prolonged standing or physical exertion, the absence of visible swelling or discomfort upon palpation makes this less likely. However, it’s worth noting that varicoceles can sometimes be asymptomatic and may not always present with noticeable signs.

Regarding the difference in height between your testicles, it is entirely normal for one testicle to hang lower than the other. This anatomical variation is common among men and usually does not indicate any underlying pathology. The slight size difference you observe may also be normal, as testicles can vary in size and shape.

As for your concerns about masturbation, it is generally considered a normal sexual activity and does not cause varicocele or other testicular issues. The ability to achieve morning erections is a good indicator of healthy erectile function and does not suggest over-masturbation. If you find that your pain worsens with frequent ejaculation, it may be worth moderating your activity to see if that alleviates your discomfort.

The tightness you feel after ejaculation could be related to the normal physiological response of the body during sexual arousal and orgasm. The muscles in the pelvic area contract during ejaculation, which can lead to a sensation of tightness. If this sensation persists or is accompanied by pain, it may be beneficial to consult a healthcare provider.

In summary, while your symptoms may not immediately suggest a serious condition, it is essential to monitor them closely. If the pain persists, worsens, or is accompanied by other symptoms such as swelling, redness, or fever, it is advisable to seek medical evaluation. A healthcare professional can perform a physical examination and may recommend an ultrasound or other diagnostic tests to rule out any underlying issues. Always prioritize your health and do not hesitate to reach out for medical advice when needed.

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