Scrotal swelling

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Male reproductive anatomy

Swelling of the scrotum; Testicular enlargement

• Apply ice packs to the scrotum for the first 24 hours, followed by sitz baths to decrease swelling.
• If the pain is severe, place a rolled-up towel between the legs just under the scrotum to help relieve pain and reduce swelling, but get medical attention to make sure it is not a torsion.
• Wear a loose-fitting athletic supporter for daily activities.
• Avoid excessive activity until the swelling disappears.

Call your health care provider if:

• You notice any unexplained scrotal swelling
• The swelling is painful
• You have a testicle lump

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Your health care provider will perform a physical examination and take a medical history, which may include the following questions:

• When did the swelling develop?
• Did it develop suddenly?
• Is it getting worse?
• How big is the swelling (try to describe in terms such as "twice normal size" or "the size of a golfball")?
• Does the swelling appear to be fluid?
• Can you feel tissue in the swollen area?
• Is the swelling in one part of the scrotum or in the entire scrotum?
• Is the swelling the same on both sides (sometimes a swollen scrotum is actually an enlarged testicle, a testicular lump, or a swollen duct)?
• Have you had surgery on the genital area?
• Have you had an injury or trauma to your genitals?
• Have you had a recent genital infection?
• Does the swelling go down after you rest in bed?
• Do you have any other symptoms?
• Is there any pain in the area around the scrotum?

The physical examination will probably include a detailed examination of the scrotum, testicles, and penis. The combination of a physical exam and history will determine whether you need any tests.

Your health care provider may prescribe antibiotics and pain medications, or recommend surgery. A scrotal ultrasound may be done to determine where the swelling is occurring.

Review Date: 09/03/2010
Reviewed By: Linda J. Vorvick, MD, Medical Director, MEDEX Northwest Division of Physician Assistant Studies, University of Washington, School of Medicine; Scott Miller, MD, Urologist in private practice in Atlanta, Georgia. Also reviewed by David Zieve, MD, MHA, Medical Director, A.D.A.M., Inc.

A.D.A.M., Inc. is accredited by URAC, also known as the American Accreditation HealthCare Commission (www.urac.org).