Testicular health: The warning signs every man should know, according to a urologist

Most men rarely examine their testicles unless they experience severe pain or swelling. However, doctors warn that these small organs can provide some of the earliest signs of infection, infertility and even cancer.

Beyond their role in reproduction, the testicles produce sperm, manufacture testosterone and play an essential role in sexual health, muscle mass, bone strength and energy levels. Recognising subtle changes early can make a significant difference to treatment outcomes.

According to Dr Manav Suryavanshi, Senior Consultant & Head - Urology, Program Head - Uro-Oncology & Robotic Surgery, Amrita Hospital, Faridabad, delayed medical attention remains one of the biggest concerns.

"Many men hesitate to discuss problems involving their testicles because of embarrassment or fear. Unfortunately, several testicular conditions progress quietly. By the time symptoms become severe, valuable time may already have been lost. Early evaluation is the key to preserving both health and fertility."

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What a healthy testicle should feel like

Doctors say a healthy testicle should feel smooth, firm but not rock hard, and free from lumps. It is also perfectly normal for one testicle to hang slightly lower than the other.

However, certain changes should never be ignored.

These include a new lump, persistent swelling, a feeling of heaviness in the scrotum, a dull ache in the groin, blood in the semen, redness, fever, sudden, severe pain, and a testicle that gradually becomes smaller.

While many of these symptoms may result from treatable conditions such as infections, hydroceles or varicoceles, they should always be assessed by a doctor.

Testicular cancer is rare but highly curable

One of the most important reasons not to ignore changes is the possibility of testicular cancer.

Although it accounts for only around 1 per cent of all cancers in men, it is the most common solid cancer affecting males between the ages of 15 and 40 years.

The encouraging news is that it is also among the most curable cancers. According to the American Cancer Society, the overall five-year survival rate exceeds 95 per cent and rises to more than 99 per cent when the disease is diagnosed before it spreads.

Varicocele is a leading reversible cause of male infertility

Another commonly overlooked condition is varicocele, an enlargement of the veins surrounding the testicle.

Research published in the World Journal of Men's Health estimates that varicocele affects nearly 15 per cent of all men and is found in up to 40 per cent of men being evaluated for infertility, making it one of the leading reversible causes of male infertility.

Early diagnosis and appropriate treatment can help improve reproductive health in many cases.

Never ignore sudden, severe testicular pain

Doctors also stress that sudden, intense pain in the testicle should always be treated as a medical emergency.

The cause may be testicular torsion, a condition in which the spermatic cord twists, cutting off the blood supply to the testicle.

International urological guidelines recommend surgery within six hours to maximise the chances of saving the affected testicle. Delayed treatment can result in permanent loss.

Why monthly self-examinations matter

Fortunately, checking testicular health is simple and only takes a few minutes each month.

Dr Suryavanshi recommends performing a monthly self-examination, ideally after a warm shower when the scrotal skin is relaxed.

Men should gently roll each testicle between the thumb and fingers to become familiar with its normal size, shape and consistency.

The purpose is not to diagnose a condition at home but to recognise any new changes that require medical attention.

Lifestyle habits that help protect testicular health

According to Dr Suryavanshi, maintaining good overall health also supports long-term testicular health.

He advises men to maintain a healthy weight, avoid tobacco, limit excessive alcohol consumption, practise safe sex, wear protective equipment during contact sports, and seek prompt treatment for urinary or sexually transmitted infections.

Men born with an undescended testicle or those with a family history of testicular cancer should be particularly vigilant and undergo regular urological evaluations.

Don't wait for pain before seeing a doctor

Dr Suryavanshi says one of the biggest misconceptions is believing that pain is always the first sign of a serious problem.

"The biggest mistake men make is waiting for pain before seeing a doctor. Many serious conditions, including testicular cancer, begin as painless abnormalities. If you notice any change that lasts longer than two weeks, don't dismiss it or depend on internet searches. A simple examination by a urologist could protect your fertility, your hormones and, in some cases, even save your life."

Doctors say recognising changes early and seeking timely medical advice can help preserve fertility, hormonal health and, in some cases, save lives.