Epididymitis

Epididymitis is swelling of the epididymis, the coiled tube at the back of the testicle that stores sperm. Epididymitis symptoms include testicle pain and swelling that build over a few days. It is usually caused by an infection and is very treatable.

What Is It

In men under 35, epididymitis is often caused by an STD. In older men, it is more often caused by bacteria from a urinary infection or an enlarged prostate. The infection can spread to the testicle itself, called orchitis. Untreated, it can cause lasting pain or affect fertility.

Symptoms

Pain and tenderness in one testicle, usually building over days
Swelling and redness of the scrotum
Burning or pain with urination
Discharge from the penis
Pain in the groin or lower belly
Fever or chills

Not sure it’s epididymitis? Sudden, severe testicle pain is different and is covered under testicular pain. Discharge or burning without testicle pain may be an STD.

Treatment

At your visit: A provider examines you and tests your urine. Confidential STD testing may be part of the visit. Epididymitis is treated with antibiotics based on the most likely cause, and partners may need treatment too.

At home:

Wear supportive underwear or an athletic supporter
Use a cold pack wrapped in cloth for 15 minutes at a time
Raise the scrotum on a folded towel while lying down
Avoid sex until you and your partner finish treatment

Pain usually improves within 2 to 3 days of treatment. Swelling can take a few weeks to go down.

When to Get Care for Epididymitis

Watch at Home

Mild soreness that is already improving on treatment
No fever

Come to Urgent Care Today

Testicle pain and swelling that builds over hours to days
Burning when you pee or discharge from the penis
Fever with testicle pain
Pain that is not better after 3 days of treatment

Go to the Emergency Department

Sudden, severe testicle pain
Testicle pain with vomiting
A testicle that sits higher than usual
High fever with severe swelling or redness

FAQ

What are the first signs of epididymitis?

The first signs of epididymitis are tenderness and pain at the back of one testicle that build over a day or two, often with burning when you pee.

What causes epididymitis?

Epididymitis is usually caused by a bacterial infection. In men under 35, it is often from an STD. In older men, it often comes from a urinary infection.

Is epididymitis an STD?

Epididymitis is not always an STD, but STDs are a common cause in men under 35. Testing tells you the cause so you and your partner can be treated.

How long does epididymitis last?

Epididymitis pain usually improves within 2 to 3 days of starting antibiotics. Swelling and mild tenderness can take a few weeks to go away completely.

Can urgent care treat epididymitis?

Yes, urgent care can treat epididymitis. At Vitality Urgent Care, a provider can examine you, test your urine, and offer confidential STD testing. No appointment or referral is needed.

When is testicle pain an emergency?

Testicle pain is an emergency when it is sudden and severe, comes with vomiting, or the testicle sits higher than usual. These can be signs of torsion. Go to the ER.

Last reviewed October 2026