Groin Discomfort: Is Varicocele Causing Your Symptoms?

Itchy sensation near the pubic bone above the left side of the scrotum?

Hello, Dr.
Hsu: I have been experiencing itching above my left scrotum near the pubic bone for four months, which worsens when I wear tight underwear.
Additionally, if my thigh compresses the scrotum for a few minutes, I feel a sensation of fluid movement.
Sometimes, I also feel tightness on the right side.
Upon self-examination, I suspect I may have varicocele (on both sides) due to discomfort in the groin area.
Could varicocele cause itching and a burning sensation?

S, 30~39 year old female. Ask Date: 2010/06/28

Dr. Xu Weikai reply Urology

Varicocele is generally characterized by symptoms such as heaviness, pain, and a sensation of discomfort.
It is uncommon for patients to report itching as a symptom.
However, itching may occur due to localized skin allergies caused by tight-fitting underwear.
If wearing tight underwear is necessary, trying a different brand may help alleviate the issue.
Additionally, applying lotions or petroleum jelly to the itchy skin can help maintain skin health.
If you have further questions or need more clarification, feel free to ask for additional discussion.
This response is provided by Dr.
Hsu Wei-kai, Director of the Urology Department, Taitung Hospital, Department of Health, Executive Yuan.

Reply Date: 2010/06/28

More Info

Hello! Thank you for reaching out with your concerns regarding groin discomfort and the possibility of varicocele being the cause of your symptoms. Based on your description, it seems you are experiencing discomfort in the left side of your scrotum, particularly near the pubic bone, with associated itching that has persisted for four months. You also mentioned that wearing tight underwear exacerbates the discomfort and that you occasionally feel a sensation of fluid movement when pressure is applied to the area. Additionally, you noted some tightness on the right side and discomfort in the groin area, which you suspect might be due to varicocele.

Varicocele is a condition characterized by the enlargement of the veins within the scrotum, similar to varicose veins that can occur in the legs. It is quite common and can affect one or both sides of the scrotum. Symptoms of varicocele can vary widely; some individuals may experience no symptoms at all, while others may report discomfort, a dull ache, or a feeling of heaviness in the scrotum. The discomfort can sometimes be exacerbated by prolonged standing or physical activity, and it may improve when lying down.

Regarding your specific symptoms of itching and the sensation of fluid movement, it is important to note that while varicocele can cause discomfort, it is less commonly associated with itching. Itching in the groin area could be due to a variety of other factors, including skin irritation, fungal infections, or other dermatological conditions. Tight clothing can contribute to skin irritation and exacerbate itching, so it might be beneficial to wear looser-fitting underwear and clothing to see if that alleviates your symptoms.

The sensation of fluid movement you described when applying pressure to the area could be related to the engorgement of veins associated with varicocele, but it is essential to have a thorough evaluation by a healthcare professional to rule out other potential causes. Conditions such as hernias, infections, or other vascular issues could also present with similar symptoms.

Given the duration of your symptoms and the discomfort you are experiencing, I recommend scheduling an appointment with a urologist. They can perform a physical examination and may recommend an ultrasound of the scrotum to assess for varicocele or other underlying conditions. This imaging can help determine the size and severity of any varicocele present and guide appropriate treatment options.

In summary, while varicocele could be a contributing factor to your discomfort, the itching and other sensations you are experiencing may be due to different causes. A comprehensive evaluation by a healthcare professional will provide clarity and help you find the most effective treatment for your symptoms. In the meantime, consider wearing loose-fitting clothing and practicing good hygiene to minimize irritation. I hope this information helps, and I wish you the best in finding relief from your symptoms!

Similar Q&A

Understanding Pain in the Groin: Varicocele vs. Prostatitis

Hello Doctor, first of all, thank you for taking the time to read my questions and respond! Recently, for the past month, I have experienced sharp pain at the "base" of my left genital area and around the testicles when performing certain actions such as riding a motorc...

Dr. Du Shixi reply Urology
Hello: 1) Varicocele causes dull aching pain and occurs when blood circulation is poor; it may be normal at times. 2) Prostatitis presents with perineal discomfort and urinary symptoms, and acute cases may involve fever. The two conditions are quite different. Wishing you good he...

Understanding Groin Discomfort: Could It Be Varicocele?

Hello, doctor. I have been troubled by a problem for a while now. My left groin area feels strange; it itches (similar to a tingling sensation) and when I press on it, it hurts. It's not a muscle pain, but rather a mix of pain and itchiness. The condition varies; sometimes i...

Dr. Xu Weikai reply Urology
Howard: Hello, your description is not very clear. I can only try to help you based on what you've described. Varicocele generally does not cause pain in the groin area; most of the discomfort is felt in the scrotum, particularly in the evening, and it can become especially ...

Understanding Varicocele: Symptoms and Impact on Overall Well-being

Hello, doctor. I would like to consult you about a troubling issue I have been experiencing. 1. I often feel a sense of heaviness and discomfort at the upper edge of the left side of my scrotum and in the left abdomen (sometimes around half a palm's width to the left of my...

Dr. Du Shixi reply Urology
Hello: 1. I often feel a sense of heaviness and fullness at the upper edge of the left side of my scrotum and in the left abdomen (sometimes around half a palm's width to the left of my navel, and other times extending up to the area just above the navel near the left flan...

Understanding Varicocele: Symptoms, Diagnosis, and Treatment Options

Hello Doctor, I was diagnosed with left-sided varicocele last year. Recently, I've been feeling discomfort on the right side as well, sometimes experiencing a dull pain. I read that if it occurs on the right side, it could be caused by other factors. Should I go to the hospi...

Dr. Li Xinyi reply Urology
Pelvic discomfort following ejaculation is quite common in young males and is generally not a cause for concern. As for pain caused by varicose veins, it varies from person to person; some individuals with severe varicosities may experience no symptoms at all. Engaging in abdomin...