Testicle Health: What to Expect

Testicle health is an important part of men’s overall wellbeing, yet it’s something many men don’t think about until a problem appears. Regular self-checks, awareness of early signs, and speaking with your GP when something doesn’t feel right can make a big difference in diagnosing and treating issues early.

Common Testicular Conditions

There are several conditions that can affect the testicles, including:

• Testicular cancer – although less common, it is the most common cancer in Australian men aged 15–44.

• Epididymitis – inflammation often caused by infection.

• Hydrocele – fluid around the testicle causing swelling.

• Varicocele – enlarged veins in the scrotum.

• Testicular torsion – a medical emergency where the testicle twists, cutting off blood supply.

Understanding these conditions helps men recognise when to seek medical care early.

Early Signs to Watch For

Stay alert to any changes in your testicles. Symptoms may include:

• A lump or swelling in either testicle

• A change in size, shape, or firmness

• A feeling of heaviness in the scrotum

• Dull ache in the lower abdomen or groin

• Pain or discomfort in a testicle or the scrotum

• Sudden, severe pain (this may be testicular torsion and needs urgent medical attention)

If you notice any changes, book an appointment with your GP. Early checks are key to early treatment.

How Testicular Conditions Are Diagnosed

Your GP may use several tools to assess testicle health:

• Physical examination – to check for lumps, swelling, or irregularities.

• Ultrasound – a painless scan to get a clear picture of the testicles.

• Blood tests – especially if testicular cancer is suspected.

• Urine tests – to check for infection.

These tests are simple and often provide quick answers.

Treatment Options

Treatment depends on the condition:

• Infections – often treated with antibiotics and rest.

• Hydrocele or varicocele – may not need treatment unless painful; sometimes surgery is recommended.

• Testicular torsion – requires emergency surgery.

• Testicular cancer – treated with surgery, chemotherapy, or radiotherapy, depending on the stage. Early diagnosis leads to excellent outcomes for most conditions, especially testicular cancer.
  

Who Is Most at Risk?

Certain factors can increase the risk of testicular issues:

• Men aged 15–44 (highest risk for testicular cancer)

• Family history of testicular cancer

• Undescended testicles

• Previous testicular injury or infection

• Certain genetic conditions

Regardless of age, every man should stay aware of changes.

Myths About Testicle Health

Myth: A lump in the testicle always means cancer.

Truth: Many lumps are harmless, but they should always be checked by a GP.

Myth: Testicular cancer only happens to older men.

Truth: It’s actually more common in younger men.

Myth: Pain must be present for something to be wrong.

Truth: Many serious conditions, including cancer, may not cause pain early on.

Myth: If both testicles feel the same, everything is fine.

Truth: Even small changes matter—regular self-checks are essential.

What You Can Do

• Perform monthly testicular self-checks. The best time is after a warm shower when the scrotum is relaxed.

• Know what’s normal for you so you can spot changes.

• See your GP promptly if something feels different.

• Maintain regular health check-ups, especially if you are high-risk.
  

When to See Your GP

If you notice a lump, swelling, pain, or any change in your testicles—even if it seems minor—book an appointment with your GP. Early assessment can prevent serious complications.

At The Medical Centre of Gympie, our doctors provide confidential men’s health checks, testicular examinations, ultrasound referrals, and follow-up care.