Testicular Health 101: What Every Man Should Know

Looking after your testicular health is a vital part of maintaining your overall wellbeing. While it’s easy to overlook, your testicles do much more than contribute to fertility—they’re central to hormone production and long-term health. Despite this, many men feel unsure about what’s normal, when to be concerned, or how to spot signs of a problem.

A straight forward overview of testicular health, including how your testicles function, common conditions you should be aware of, how to perform self-examinations, and when to see a doctor. We also touch on conditions like hydrocele, which are often misunderstood or ignored.

What Are the Testicles and What Do They Do?

Your testicles (or testes) are two oval-shaped glands that sit inside your scrotum. They’re responsible for producing sperm and testosterone—the main male sex hormone. Testosterone plays a crucial role in everything from sex drive and muscle mass to mood and bone health.

Each testicle is connected to your body through the spermatic cord, which carries blood vessels, nerves, and the vas deferens—a tube that transports sperm to the urethra.

Most men have two testicles, but having one is not unusual, especially after surgery or due to a birth condition.

What Is Normal?

It’s important to understand what’s normal for you. While testicles vary in size, they are usually smooth, firm but not hard, and mostly symmetrical—although one might hang lower than the other. Some variation is common.

Temperature regulation is one of the reasons the testicles are suspended outside the body. Sperm production requires a temperature slightly lower than your core body temperature. This is why you might notice the scrotum tightening when it’s cold and loosening when it’s warm.

How to Check Your Testicles

You should check your testicles once a month. This helps you get familiar with how they normally feel so that any changes stand out.

Step-by-step self-check:

1. Do it after a warm shower – The scrotum is relaxed and it’s easier to feel what’s inside.
2. Use both hands – Gently roll each testicle between your thumb and fingers.
3. Feel for lumps, swelling or changes – You’re looking for anything that wasn’t there before.
4. Check the epididymis – This is a soft tube at the back of the testicle. It may feel like a bump but is completely normal.

If you notice any unusual lumps, a hard area, sudden swelling, or discomfort, speak to a doctor.

Common Testicular Health Conditions

Several testicular conditions can affect men at different stages of life. Knowing what they are can help you seek care early.

1. Testicular Torsion

This happens when the spermatic cord twists and cuts off blood supply to the testicle. It’s a medical emergency and usually causes sudden, severe pain in one testicle, swelling, and sometimes nausea.

Torsion often affects younger males—especially teenagers—and must be treated within hours to avoid permanent damage. If you experience sudden, intense pain, go to A&E immediately.

2. Epididymitis

Inflammation of the epididymis is often caused by infection, including sexually transmitted infections like chlamydia or gonorrhoea, or even a urinary tract infection.

Symptoms include:

• Pain in the testicle
• Swelling or warmth in the scrotum
• Fever or chills
• Pain when urinating

It’s important to get antibiotics promptly if infection is the cause.

3. Varicocele

This is when veins in the scrotum become enlarged, similar to varicose veins in the legs. It’s more common on the left side and may cause a dull ache or heaviness, especially after standing or exercising.

Varicoceles can affect sperm production and fertility, although many men have them without symptoms. Treatment may involve surgery if fertility is affected.

4. Testicular Cancer

Though relatively rare, testicular cancer is the most common cancer in men aged 15 to 45. The most frequent sign is a painless lump in one testicle, though some men notice swelling, heaviness, or discomfort.

Testicular cancer is highly treatable—especially when caught early. This is why regular self-exams and awareness of changes are so important.

5. Hydrocele

A hydrocele is a build-up of fluid around the testicle, usually causing painless swelling. It often occurs in newborns but can also develop in adults, especially after injury or inflammation.

While hydroceles are usually harmless, they can become uncomfortable or unsightly. Many men want to avoid surgery and look for less invasive ways to manage the condition. If you're interested in options beyond medical procedures, you can read more about natural treatment for hydrocele.

Lifestyle Tips to Support Testicular Health

Looking after your testicles isn’t just about checking for lumps. Several lifestyle choices can make a real difference.

1. Wear Supportive Underwear

Supportive, well-fitting underwear helps reduce strain, especially during sports. Avoid underwear that’s too tight for long periods as it can affect temperature regulation and possibly sperm production.

2. Stay Sexually Healthy

Practising safe sex reduces the risk of sexually transmitted infections, which can cause long-term testicular issues if left untreated. Use condoms and get tested regularly, especially if you have multiple partners.

3. Manage Heat Exposure

Prolonged exposure to high heat—like hot tubs or laptops on your lap—can reduce sperm quality. Give your testicles a break from direct heat whenever possible.

4. Limit Alcohol and Avoid Smoking

Excessive alcohol and tobacco use have been linked to lower testosterone levels and reduced sperm count. Moderation is key, and stopping smoking has clear benefits for reproductive and general health.

5. Exercise Regularly

Physical activity supports hormone balance and cardiovascular health, both of which contribute to healthy testicular function. Just be cautious with activities that put pressure on the groin, such as cycling—wear padded shorts if needed.

6. Maintain a Healthy Weight

Obesity has been linked to lower testosterone and reduced fertility. Losing excess weight through a balanced diet and regular exercise can improve testicular health.

When Should You See a Doctor?

You should contact your GP if you notice:

• A lump or swelling in one or both testicles
• Sudden or ongoing pain in the scrotum
• Changes in testicle size or shape
• A heavy or dragging sensation
• Blood in your semen
• Fertility concerns after trying for a year without success

Even if something turns out to be harmless, it's better to have it checked. Early diagnosis usually means simpler treatment and better outcomes.

Psychological Aspects of Testicular Health

Issues with testicular health can cause emotional stress, anxiety, or embarrassment. Concerns about masculinity, sexual function, or fertility are deeply personal and can be difficult to discuss—even with a doctor.

But ignoring problems rarely makes them go away. Testicular conditions are common, often treatable, and doctors deal with them every day. If you’re struggling to cope, counselling or talking to a support group may help.

Ageing and Testicular Function

As you get older, your testicles may become slightly smaller and softer. Testosterone levels naturally decline with age, which can affect energy levels, sex drive, and mood.

While some decline is expected, a significant drop may signal a condition called hypogonadism. Blood tests can check your testosterone levels, and treatment is available if needed.

Testicular cancer is less common in older men, but other conditions like hydrocele, epididymitis, or even testicular shrinkage due to hormonal changes may occur.

Again, regular self-checks and knowing your normal can help you notice if something changes.

Talking About Testicular Health

It can feel awkward to discuss testicles—even with close friends or family—but openness can save lives. Men are often reluctant to speak up about health concerns. This can delay diagnosis and treatment.

Encourage open conversations about testicular health in your circles. It normalises the topic and helps others feel more comfortable doing the same.

Parents should also talk to their sons about checking their testicles and encourage questions about puberty, growth, and body changes.

Final Thoughts

Testicular health is a key part of your overall wellbeing, and it deserves attention. Performing monthly self-checks, recognising warning signs, and living a healthy lifestyle can go a long way in preventing or catching issues early.

Conditions like hydrocele, varicocele, or testicular cancer may sound alarming, but most can be treated effectively—especially when identified early. If you're looking for a natural cure for hydrocele, there are options worth exploring that go beyond conventional surgery.