Scrotal Lumps, Pain and Swelling Hydrocele, Varicocele, Testicular Torsion

Last updated by Peer reviewed by Dr Toni Hazell
Last updated Meets Patient’s editorial guidelines

Added to Saved items

There are many causes of lumps or pain in the scrotum, including hydrocele, varicocele, and testicular torsion. Most lumps are not cancer, and many are not serious. However, you should always see a doctor if you have pain or a lump in this area.

You should always see a doctor if you notice any pain or swelling in your scrotum. If it is painful, you should seek advice urgently.

Male Reproductive Organs

Cross-section view

Cross-section diagram of a testis
Hanging_testicles

Swellings in the scrotum can be due to:

  • Extra fluid inside.
  • Abnormal tissue growing.
  • Normal tissue which has become swollen, inflamed, or hard.

The symptoms depend on the cause of the problem. Possible symptoms include:

  • Noticing a lump which has not been there before.
  • A sudden pain.
  • A dull ache.
  • Redness or warmth of the skin of your scrotum.
  • The testicle (testis) or structures around it may be very tender.
  • Swelling of your scrotum.
  • Feeling sick (nauseated) or being sick (vomiting).
  • Having a temperature, passing urine more frequently, or pus or blood in your urine (if the cause is an infection).

Worried about your health?

Find a range of men's health services, delivered by local professionals today

Book now

Common causes of pain or swelling in the scrotum include:

Other rare or less common causes include:

Your doctor will often be able to tell what kind of swelling it is just from examining you. For example, they may shine a light through your scrotum, as fluid will light up. Or they may ask you to cough which may make a hernia more obvious.

You will usually have an ultrasound scan to be sure of the cause and to find out whether you need any treatment. An ultrasound scan is a painless test that uses sound waves to create images of organs and structures inside your body. Sometimes a blood test may be helpful too.

The treatment totally depends on the cause. Often no treatment at all is needed. Other times - for example, in testicular torsion or testicular cancer - treatment is needed urgently. See each individual leaflet for further information on the different treatments.

NB: always see a doctor for advice about whether treatment is needed.

Testicular Torsion

Are you protected against flu?

See if you are eligible for a free NHS flu jab today.

Check now

Further reading and references

newnav-downnewnav-up