The issue of testicular descent and elevation?
Hello doctor, I am 24 years old and just discharged from military service.
I understand that it is normal for the testicles to retract when cold and hang lower when warm.
However, I recently noticed that during an erection, my testicles do not elevate as they should.
They remain quite low, which makes things inconvenient during intimate moments with my girlfriend, as they tend to swing around.
I've seen many men whose testicles retract tightly during an erection, but mine do not.
What could be the issue? This is quite troubling for me, and I would appreciate your explanation.
Thank you.
Xiao K, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2012/05/16
Dr. Zhou Xinpei reply Urology
Hello: Regarding your health concerns, it is recommended that you visit a urology clinic for a detailed examination to clarify the issue.
Thank you!
Reply Date: 2012/05/16
More Info
Understanding the changes in testicular position during erection is an important aspect of male reproductive health. The phenomenon you're experiencing, where your testicles do not elevate during an erection, can be attributed to several factors, and it's essential to understand the normal physiological responses of the male anatomy.
Firstly, it is normal for the testicles to change position in response to temperature. When exposed to cold, the cremaster muscle contracts, pulling the testicles closer to the body to maintain warmth. Conversely, in warmer conditions, the muscle relaxes, allowing the testicles to hang lower. This is a natural mechanism to protect sperm production, which is optimal at slightly lower temperatures than the body's core temperature.
During an erection, the body undergoes a series of physiological changes. The penis becomes engorged with blood, and the surrounding muscles, including the cremaster muscle, may also respond. Typically, during sexual arousal and erection, the cremaster muscle contracts, causing the testicles to elevate closer to the body. This is often perceived as a tightening or lifting of the testicles, which can vary significantly among individuals.
In your case, the lack of elevation of the testicles during an erection could be due to several reasons:
1. Anatomical Variation: Just as there is a wide range of normal when it comes to penis size and shape, the same applies to testicular position. Some men may naturally have a less pronounced elevation of the testicles during an erection.
2. Muscle Tone: The degree of contraction of the cremaster muscle can vary from person to person. If the muscle tone is lower in your case, it may not contract as effectively during arousal, resulting in less elevation of the testicles.
3. Hormonal Factors: Hormones play a significant role in muscle function and sexual arousal. Variations in testosterone levels or other hormonal factors could influence how your body responds during an erection.
4. Psychological Factors: Anxiety or stress related to sexual performance can also affect physiological responses. If you are preoccupied with how your body is responding, it may inadvertently affect your arousal and the associated muscle contractions.
5. Medical Conditions: While less common, certain medical conditions can affect muscle tone or nerve function, which could impact how the cremaster muscle behaves. If you have any underlying health concerns or if this change is sudden, it may be worth consulting a healthcare professional.
If this issue is causing you significant discomfort or concern, it would be advisable to consult with a urologist. They can perform a thorough evaluation, including a physical examination and possibly imaging studies, to ensure that there are no underlying conditions affecting your reproductive health.
In summary, while the elevation of the testicles during an erection is a common physiological response, variations exist among individuals. Factors such as anatomical differences, muscle tone, hormonal influences, psychological factors, and potential medical conditions can all play a role. If you continue to have concerns, seeking professional medical advice is the best course of action to address your worries and ensure your reproductive health is in good standing.
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