Testicular contusion?
Hello Doctor, I read online at the end of May 2022 that men should check their testicles to determine if they have testicular cancer.
That day, while taking a shower, I examined my testicles myself, but when I squeezed them, the shower gel was too slippery, and my hand slipped, causing a momentary sharp pain.
After a while, I noticed a persistent dull pain in my abdomen, but when I felt my testicles, there was no tenderness, and I couldn't locate the source of the pain.
A few days later, I realized that the pain was coming from the area where the head of the testicle connects to the epididymis; the testicle itself did not hurt, but it felt like the pain was in the tunica vaginalis and the epididymis connected to the head of the testicle.
Later, I visited a doctor and explained that the pain started after I squeezed them.
The doctor performed a physical examination but said it was due to prolonged sitting and that there was nothing wrong and no hematoma.
After the examination, the doctor said there was no issue, and I didn't think much of it.
I went home and took medication for a few days, and the pain subsided.
However, I noticed that the angle of the affected right testicle had changed; it was originally horizontal, but after seeing the doctor and taking the medication, it became close to vertical.
This issue has troubled me for a long time.
I know I should have sought medical attention immediately after the injury, but since I couldn't find a tender spot and didn't feel particularly uncomfortable, I delayed for a few days before seeking medical care.
I would like to ask the doctor if this issue could be testicular atrophy.
Could the change in angle be due to a change in volume from atrophy? I have measured and visually assessed that there doesn't seem to be a size reduction, but the change in angle has made me very anxious.
This has been a concern for a long time, and I have many questions.
I appreciate your help, thank you!
Xiang, 30~39 year old female. Ask Date: 2024/01/13
Dr. Cai Zhuorong reply Urology
Testicular atrophy is defined as a reduction in testicular volume.
Reply Date: 2024/01/13
More Info
Testicular injuries can be concerning, especially when they involve pain and changes in the position of the testicles. Based on your description, it seems that you experienced a sudden trauma to the testicle while performing a self-examination, which led to subsequent discomfort and a noticeable change in the angle of the affected testicle.
Firstly, it is essential to understand that the testicles are housed in the scrotum, and they can be affected by various factors, including trauma, inflammation, or even positional changes. The pain you initially felt after the incident could have been due to a minor injury to the surrounding tissues, such as the tunica vaginalis (the membrane surrounding the testicle) or the epididymis (the structure that stores and matures sperm). The fact that you did not experience pain upon palpation of the testicle itself suggests that the injury may not have been severe, but rather localized to the connective tissues.
The change in the angle of the testicle you mentioned could be attributed to several factors. One possibility is that the trauma caused some temporary swelling or inflammation in the area, which might have altered the position of the testicle. Additionally, if there was any minor injury to the ligaments or connective tissues that anchor the testicle in place, this could also lead to a change in its orientation. It is important to note that such changes do not necessarily indicate testicular atrophy or shrinkage, especially if you have not observed a decrease in size.
Testicular atrophy typically occurs due to a variety of reasons, including hormonal imbalances, chronic inflammation, or reduced blood supply. If you have not noticed any significant size reduction and the testicle appears normal upon visual inspection, it is less likely that you are experiencing atrophy. However, the change in angle can be concerning, and it is understandable that this has caused you anxiety.
Given your history and the ongoing concerns, it would be prudent to follow up with a healthcare professional, preferably a urologist, who specializes in male reproductive health. They can perform a thorough examination, including an ultrasound if necessary, to assess the blood flow to the testicle and check for any underlying issues that may not be apparent through physical examination alone.
In summary, while the initial trauma may have caused temporary discomfort and a change in the position of your testicle, it does not necessarily indicate a severe problem such as atrophy. However, due to the change in angle and your ongoing concerns, seeking further evaluation from a specialist is advisable. They can provide reassurance and appropriate management if needed, ensuring that your reproductive health is not compromised. Remember, it is always better to address such concerns early to prevent any potential complications.
Similar Q&A
Understanding Changes in Testicular Position After Injury
Dear Dr. Hsu, About a month ago, I accidentally bumped my right testicle against a table while walking. It was extremely painful at the moment, but the pain subsided after about half an hour. When I took off my pants to check, I noticed that the position and orientation of my te...
Dr. Xu Weikai reply Urology
Danny: Hello, it is possible that there is bleeding in the testicle, causing a change in its appearance. However, after a month of rest, it should have healed, and what remains may just be residual blood clots that will gradually be absorbed over time. If convenient, I recommend ...[Read More] Understanding Changes in Testicular Position After Injury
Understanding Testicular Trauma: Symptoms, Hormonal Impact, and Fertility Concerns
Hello Doctor: When I was in middle school, I sustained an impact to my right testicle, which caused immediate pain so severe that I could not breathe. Since then, I have experienced ongoing pain, and even now while studying in graduate school, I still occasionally feel discomfort...
Dr. Xu Wencang reply Urology
You can go for an outpatient examination.[Read More] Understanding Testicular Trauma: Symptoms, Hormonal Impact, and Fertility Concerns
Understanding Testicular Pain: Causes and Concerns for Athletes
Hello, doctor. I engaged in high-intensity exercise on Sunday, and on Monday night, just before bed, I experienced a sudden pain near my left testicle or the spermatic cord that lasted about 2 to 3 seconds. This pain recurred the following afternoon, but after that, I did not exp...
Dr. Du Shixi reply Urology
Hello: Testicular torsion is an emergency and should not be delayed for that long. If you continue to experience pain, please seek medical attention. Wishing you good health.[Read More] Understanding Testicular Pain: Causes and Concerns for Athletes
Understanding Testicular Discomfort: Causes, Surgery, and Costs
I’m sorry to hear that you’re experiencing discomfort. It sounds like you may be dealing with a condition related to your testicles, such as testicular torsion or a similar issue. If you notice that your left testicle is positioned horizontally and you experience pain, it is impo...
Dr. Du Mingyi reply Urology
Testicular torsion requires surgical fixation. You can visit the urology outpatient clinic for evaluation.[Read More] Understanding Testicular Discomfort: Causes, Surgery, and Costs
Related FAQ
(Urology)
Pain After Ejaculation(Urology)
Testicle(Surgery)
Varicocele(Urology)
Scrotal Edema(Urology)
Low Back Pain(Urology)
Inguinal Hernia(Urology)
Balanitis(Urology)
Cryptorchidism(Urology)
Bleeding(Urology)