Testicular Pain

Testicular pain is pain in one or both testicles or the scrotum. Common causes of testicular pain include infection, injury, a hernia, and kidney stones. Sudden, severe pain needs care right away because it can be torsion.

What Is It

Epididymitis, an infection of the tube behind the testicle, causes pain that builds over days. A hernia can push into the scrotum and cause a bulge. Testicular torsion is a twisted testicle that cuts off blood flow, most often in teens. Pain can also spread to the scrotum from a kidney stone.

Symptoms

Aching or sharp pain in the testicle
Swelling of the scrotum
Tenderness when touched
A lump or bulge in the scrotum or groin
Pain spreading to the groin or lower belly
Burning with urination with an infection

Not sure what is causing it? Pain and swelling that build over days, often with burning when you pee, may be epididymitis. A bulge in the groin that gets bigger when you strain may be a hernia.

Treatment

At your visit: A provider examines the testicles, scrotum, and groin and tests your urine. Confidential STD testing may be part of the visit. Infections and injuries are treated based on the cause. Possible torsion needs the emergency department.

At home:

Wear supportive underwear or an athletic supporter
Use a cold pack wrapped in cloth for 15 minutes at a time
Rest and avoid heavy lifting
Use over the counter pain relievers as directed

Pain from an infection usually improves within a few days of treatment.

When to Get Care for Testicular Pain

Watch at Home

Mild soreness after a minor bump that fades within an hour
No swelling or lump

Come to Urgent Care Today

Pain or swelling that builds over hours to days
Testicular pain with burning when you pee
Pain after an injury that does not fade
A new lump or bulge in the scrotum or groin
Pain with fever

Go to the Emergency Department

Sudden, severe testicle pain, especially in a teen or young man
Pain with nausea or vomiting
A testicle that sits higher than usual or at an odd angle
Severe swelling after an injury

FAQ

What causes testicular pain?

Testicular pain is most often caused by an infection like epididymitis, an injury, a hernia, or a kidney stone. Sudden, severe pain can be testicular torsion, which is an emergency.

When should I worry about testicle pain?

Worry about testicle pain that is sudden and severe, comes with nausea or vomiting, or causes swelling. Pain that builds over days should also be checked soon.

What does testicular torsion feel like?

Testicular torsion feels like sudden, severe pain in one testicle, often with swelling, nausea, and vomiting. The testicle may sit higher than usual. Go to the emergency department right away.

Can an STD cause testicular pain?

Yes, some STDs can cause testicular pain by infecting the epididymis. This is more common in men under 35. Testing and treatment clear the infection.

Can urgent care treat testicular pain?

Yes, urgent care can treat many causes of testicular pain. At Vitality Urgent Care, a provider can examine you, test your urine, and offer confidential STD testing.

Is testicular pain an emergency?

Testicular pain is an emergency when it is sudden and severe, comes with vomiting, or the testicle sits at an odd angle. These can be signs of torsion. Go to the ER.

Last reviewed October 2026