What should my testicles look and feel like?

Most men’s testicles are around the same size, however, one is often somewhat larger than the other. It’s also usual for one testicle to protrude more than the other.

The balls should be smooth and firm but not rigid, with no lumps or bumps. The epididymis is a delicate tube that runs down the back of each testicle.

If you observe any changes or anything out of the ordinary with your gonads, you should consult your doctor.

What causes testicular lumps and swelling?

Testicular lumps and swellings can be caused by a variety of factors, including:

• Varicocele is a condition caused by swollen veins in the testicles (may look like a bag of worms)
• The enlargement caused by fluid surrounding the testicle is known as a hydrocele.
• A cyst in the epididymis is a bulge created by a collection of fluid.
• Torsion of the testicles is a sudden painful swelling that occurs when a testicle twists (this is a medical emergency and requires surgery as soon as possible)
• Chlamydia infection in the epididymis can produce inflammation, swelling, and soreness inside the scrotum (ball sack); some men will notice that the entire scrotum is red and painful (this is called epididymal-orchitis)
• Testicular carcinoma is a rare cause of lumps.

What symptoms indicate testicular cancer?

Early indications of testicular cancer are simple to identify. Keep an eye out for one or more of the following:

• a hard bump on the front or side of a testicle swelling
• enlargement of a testicle
• increase in testicular hardness pain
• discomfort in a testicle or the scrotum (the sac that holds the testicles)
• an odd difference between one testicle and the other If you notice a lump or swelling, or if you have any of the aforementioned symptoms, you should consult a doctor.

Read more about testicular lumps and swellings and testicular cancer.