Lumps or Pain Within the Scrotum

See your doctor. Your doctor will likely be able to determine if the lump is on the testicle or not. An ultrasound may be necessary to confirm the diagnosis. If the lump is on the testicle, your doctor will want to be certain that this is not a tumor.

Other causes of a lump or swelling with minimal or no pain include

• an epididymal cyst - a benign fluid filled swelling of the spermatic cord that feels like a lump. It is not inflamed so there is no pain or just minimal discomfort.

• a hydrocele - a benign collection of fluid within the scrotum, often related to a defect or irritation of the lining in the scrotum or spermatic cord. The hydrocele may cause mild discomfort.

• a varicocele - a dilated vein within the scrotum. They are common, occurring in about 15 percent of all men. A varicocele is much more likely to be felt on the left side of the scrotum compared to the right side. They can be associated with an ache in the scrotal area.

• a hernia - an opening in the lowest part of the abdominal wall can occur that allows intestine or other abdominal structures to push through into the groin or scrotum. The swelling will usually be felt in the top part of the scrotum, near the groin.

If you are feeling a swelling in the top part of the scrotum, you may have a hernia.

Click here if you think you may have a hernia.