Testicular Discomfort After Sexual Activity: What to Know

Testicular heaviness or discomfort?

Hello Doctor: A few days ago, I had sexual intercourse with my girlfriend while using a condom.
When I was about to ejaculate, I intentionally held back a bit because I wanted to continue.
However, I felt like I might have released some semen, and since my penis hadn't softened yet, I continued and eventually ejaculated again.
Over the past two days, I've been feeling a dull sensation in my testicles.
There is no pain, just an odd feeling.
I have read some articles and heard that intentionally not ejaculating can cause testicular discomfort, but can it last this long? I don't think it's a sexually transmitted infection, so I wanted to ask the doctor first.
Thank you for your response.

Xiao Zhi, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2004/10/03

Dr. Pan Zhenqin reply Urology

Holding back ejaculation during orgasm is indeed an unpleasant experience, as it requires increasing the tension of the pelvic floor muscles.
This can lead to discomfort similar to pelvic congestion syndrome, and may also cause a dull pain in the testicles.
If you are certain that it is not due to testicular inflammation (which would typically present with varying degrees of redness, swelling, heat, and pain in the testicles), it is recommended to take warm sitz baths for a few days to improve local blood circulation, which should help alleviate the discomfort.

Reply Date: 2004/10/03

More Info

Experiencing testicular discomfort after sexual activity can be concerning, but it is not uncommon. Your situation, where you engaged in sexual activity while wearing a condom and attempted to delay ejaculation, may have contributed to the sensations you are feeling. Let's explore the potential causes and considerations regarding your discomfort.

Understanding Testicular Discomfort
1. Physiological Response: During sexual arousal and activity, blood flow to the genital area increases significantly. When you intentionally hold back ejaculation, it can lead to a buildup of pressure in the reproductive system. This pressure can sometimes cause a sensation of fullness or discomfort in the testicles, often described as a dull ache or heaviness. This is sometimes referred to as "blue balls," a colloquial term for the discomfort that can occur when sexual arousal does not culminate in ejaculation.

2. Duration of Discomfort: The discomfort you are experiencing can last for a few hours to a couple of days, depending on individual physiology and the extent of arousal. If the discomfort persists beyond a few days or worsens, it may warrant further investigation.

3. Injury or Strain: Engaging in sexual activity can sometimes lead to minor injuries or strains in the pelvic region, especially if there was vigorous movement or unusual positions. While you mentioned that you do not feel pain, any unusual sensations should be monitored.

4. Infection or Inflammation: While you indicated that you do not believe this to be a sexually transmitted infection (STI), it is important to consider that infections can sometimes present with discomfort. Conditions such as epididymitis (inflammation of the epididymis) or orchitis (inflammation of the testicles) can cause discomfort and may require medical attention.

Recommendations
1. Monitor Symptoms: Keep track of your symptoms. If the discomfort persists for more than a few days, or if you develop additional symptoms such as swelling, redness, fever, or severe pain, it is advisable to seek medical attention.

2. Rest and Recovery: Allow your body some time to recover. Avoid any activities that may exacerbate the discomfort, including vigorous sexual activity or heavy lifting.

3. Consult a Healthcare Provider: If your symptoms do not improve or if you have any concerns, consider consulting a healthcare provider. A urologist can perform a thorough examination and may recommend tests to rule out any underlying conditions.

4. Discuss Sexual Practices: If you find that delaying ejaculation consistently leads to discomfort, you might want to discuss this with your partner and explore different sexual practices that may be more comfortable for you.

5. Educate Yourself: Understanding your body and its responses during sexual activity can help alleviate anxiety about discomfort. Resources on sexual health can provide valuable insights into what is normal and what may require attention.

Conclusion
In summary, while testicular discomfort after sexual activity can be a common experience, especially when ejaculation is intentionally delayed, it is essential to listen to your body. If the discomfort continues or is accompanied by other concerning symptoms, seeking medical advice is the best course of action. Remember, open communication with your partner about your experiences and comfort levels can also enhance your sexual health and relationship.

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