Left testicle pain can come from an injury, infection, a varicocele, or an emergency like torsion. Learn the common causes, warning signs, and when to see a doctor.
Pain in your left testicle can be scary, especially when you don't know what's causing it. It can come from something minor, like a small injury, or from a condition that needs care right away. And any new lump or change needs a doctor's look whether it hurts or not. This guide covers the common causes of left testicle pain, the warning signs, and when to get checked.
Go to an ER or call your doctor right away if: the pain is sudden or severe, it comes with nausea or vomiting, or you still have pain or swelling an hour after an injury to the scrotum. (MedlinePlus)
If you're 15 to 35, you're who we hear from most. Most of the men who reach out to TCF, and most of the guys in our support community, are in that age range. If you're worried, you're in good company, and we're here when you want to talk to someone who's been there.
Usually not, but don't rule it out on your own. The National Cancer Institute's list of possible testicular cancer symptoms starts with a painless lump or swelling in either testicle. It also includes a change in how the testicle feels, a dull ache in the lower abdomen or groin, a sudden build-up of fluid in the scrotum, and pain or discomfort in a testicle or the scrotum. (NCI)
MedlinePlus notes that testicular cancer is almost always painless, and that any testicle lump should be checked by a provider whether or not there is pain. (MedlinePlus) So pain doesn't mean cancer, and no pain doesn't mean you're in the clear. If you feel a lump, here's what to do next.
Torsion is twisting that cuts off the testicle's blood supply. It's most common in young men between 10 and 20, and it's a medical emergency: if surgery happens within 4 hours, most testicles can be saved. Sudden, severe testicle pain needs immediate medical care. Don't wait it out. (MedlinePlus)
A varicocele is swelling of the veins inside the scrotum, similar to varicose veins in the legs. Varicoceles usually develop slowly, are more common in men ages 15 to 25, and are most often on the left side. Symptoms can include a dull ache or discomfort, enlarged twisted veins, or a painless bulge, and some men have no symptoms at all. A varicocele that appears suddenly in an older man may be caused by a kidney tumor. (MedlinePlus)
These are infection or swelling of the sperm ducts (epididymitis) or the testicle itself (orchitis). If the pain is caused by an infection, your provider may prescribe antibiotics. (MedlinePlus)
The testicles are very sensitive, and even a minor injury can cause pain. If you still have pain or swelling an hour after an injury, get care right away. (MedlinePlus)
Mild pain can come from fluid around the testicle (hydrocele) or a cyst in the epididymis (spermatocele). (MedlinePlus)
Pain felt in the testicles can also come from a hernia or a kidney stone. (MedlinePlus)
Not a likely cause of pain, but it's the one you can't afford to miss. See the section above, and learn how to do a self-exam.
A dull ache or discomfort is one of the listed symptoms of a varicocele. (MedlinePlus) A dull ache in the lower abdomen or groin is also on NCI's list of possible testicular cancer symptoms, so an ache that lingers is worth a visit. (NCI)
If your scrotum is warm, tender to the touch, or red, or you have a fever, contact your provider right away. (MedlinePlus)
Testicle pain can spread into the lower abdomen, and your provider will ask whether the pain reaches your abdomen or back. (MedlinePlus) Tell them exactly where it hurts and when it started.
Your provider will examine your groin, testicles, and abdomen and ask questions such as how long you've had the pain, whether it started suddenly or slowly, whether it's on one or both sides, how bad it is, and whether it comes and goes. Tests may include an ultrasound of the testicles, urine tests, and a CT scan or other imaging. (MedlinePlus) See our testicular ultrasound guide for what that exam is like.
For non-urgent causes like minor injuries and fluid collections, MedlinePlus suggests supporting the scrotum with an athletic supporter, applying ice wrapped in a cloth, and trying over-the-counter pain relievers such as acetaminophen or ibuprofen. (MedlinePlus) Home care is only for pain you know is minor. If you're not sure, get checked.
(MedlinePlus, NCI)
It can be. Sudden or severe pain can mean torsion, which is an emergency. Other causes, like a minor injury or a varicocele, are less urgent, but any lump or change should be checked even if it doesn't hurt.
Some causes favor the left side. Varicoceles, for example, are most often seen on the left side of the scrotum.
It can. NCI lists pain or discomfort in a testicle or the scrotum as a possible symptom, but MedlinePlus notes that testicular cancer is almost always painless, so a painless lump or swelling is the change to watch for.
There are several possible causes, including injury and infection. If your scrotum is warm, tender to the touch, or red, or you have a fever, contact your provider right away.
A dull ache or discomfort is one of the listed symptoms of a varicocele, and a dull ache in the lower abdomen or groin is also a possible testicular cancer symptom. If it doesn't go away, get it checked.
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