Noticing a lump in your testicle can be unsettling, but understanding what it means—and what steps to take next—can help you feel more in control. Whether it feels like a bump on your testicle, a mass in your scrotum, or something unusual in your ball sack, it's completely natural to feel worried. The first thing to understand is that not all scrotal masses are cancerous—but that doesn't mean they should be ignored. Acting quickly and getting the right medical evaluation can make all the difference.
What Does a Lump in the Testicle Mean?
If you are wondering what to do after discovering a lump in your testicle, you should get it checked by a doctor. Before you jump to conclusions, know that there are multiple possible causes—some benign, others more serious.
A bump on the testicle can be the result of a testicular cyst, hydrocele, varicocele, or an epididymal cyst. In many cases, these are harmless and don't require surgery. But a testicular mass can also indicate testicular cancer, which is why it's critical to get a professional opinion. The sooner a medical provider examines the scrotal mass, the sooner you can make a plan. Waiting it out only increases anxiety and, in rare cases, allows serious conditions to progress.
Common Causes of Testicular or Scrotal Lumps
Many of the common causes of testicular lumps present similarly, so a clinical evaluation is the only way to be certain.
Epididymal Cyst or Spermatocele
This is one of the most common causes of a bump on the scrotum. These fluid-filled sacs form in the epididymis—the small, coiled tube located behind each testicle. They're usually painless and don't require treatment unless they grow large or cause discomfort.
Hydrocele
A hydrocele occurs when fluid builds up in the sac around a testicle. You might notice swelling or a soft mass that can change in size. These are most common in newborns but can also appear in adult men.
Varicocele
Often described as feeling like a "bag of worms," a varicocele is caused by enlarged veins in the scrotum. While typically harmless, they can impact fertility and sometimes require surgical correction.
Scrotal Cyst
A scrotal cyst is a benign lump filled with keratin or other materials. Though usually not painful, a bump on your scrotum that feels hard or becomes inflamed should be evaluated to rule out infection or malignancy.
Inguinal Hernia
If part of your intestine pushes through a weak spot in the abdominal wall, it can drop into the scrotum and present as a soft, sometimes painful scrotal mass. Hernias often enlarge when you strain or lift heavy objects.
Testicular Cancer
Perhaps the most serious condition associated with a lump in the testicle, testicular cancer often begins as a painless mass. It may be the size of a pea or a marble. While it's relatively rare, it is the most common cancer in men between 15 and 35 years old. Early detection is critical and leads to a high cure rate.
How to Tell the Difference: Testicular Cyst vs. Cancer
This is the question many men fear the most: Is this a cyst, or is it cancer? While only imaging and lab tests can give you a definitive answer, there are a few characteristics to consider when comparing a testicular cyst vs. cancer.
Cysts are typically soft, movable, and fluid-filled. They often occur in the epididymis rather than in the testicle itself.
Cancerous masses tend to be firm, fixed in place, and may be growing in size over time. They often originate within the testicle.
Regardless of how the lump in your ball sack feels, a clinical exam and ultrasound are the only way to determine exactly what's going on.
What Happens at the Doctor's Office?
If you've noticed a bump on your testicle and scheduled a visit, here's what to expect. A urologist will begin by discussing your medical history and symptoms, including when you first noticed the scrotal lump, whether it has changed in size, and if there's been any pain, swelling, or discomfort.
Physical Exam and Imaging
The doctor will perform a physical exam and may shine a light through the scrotal mass—a process called transillumination. Fluid-filled cysts will light up; solid masses typically do not. Next, a testicular ultrasound will be performed. This non-invasive imaging test provides a detailed look at the inside of your testicle and scrotum. It's painless and usually takes under 15 minutes. In some cases, blood tests may be ordered to check for tumor markers—substances that are sometimes elevated in men with testicular cancer.
How Are Testicular Lumps Treated?
Treatment depends entirely on the cause of the testicular mass. Here are a few examples of what might follow your diagnosis:
Epididymal or scrotal cysts: Typically no treatment unless they cause pain; may be monitored or removed surgically if needed.
Hydroceles: May resolve on their own, but persistent cases can be drained or surgically corrected.
Varicoceles: Monitored unless painful or linked to infertility; surgery may be recommended.
Inguinal hernias: Usually repaired through outpatient surgery.
Testicular cancer: Typically treated with surgical removal of the affected testicle, often followed by radiation or chemotherapy, depending on the stage.
Early detection is key. Many men recover fully from testicular cancer, especially when it's caught early. If you act quickly, your prognosis is often excellent.
Self-Exams Can Save Lives
One of the best ways to catch a lump in the testicle early is by performing monthly testicular self-exams. Do this in a warm shower, when the scrotum is relaxed. Roll each testicle gently between your fingers and feel for any unusual bumps, firmness, or changes in size.
If anything feels off, schedule an appointment with your doctor. Trust your instincts—no one knows your body better than you do.
I Found a Lump in My Testicle—Now What?
If you've discovered a bump on your testicle, it's not something to panic about—but it is something to take seriously. Many conditions that cause scrotal masses are benign, but only a trained medical professional can confirm that. The worst thing you can do is ignore it and hope it goes away.
Getting the right diagnosis quickly means less stress and, if necessary, earlier treatment. Whether it turns out to be a scrotal cyst or something more urgent, taking action is the smartest move you can make.
Take Charge of Your Health Today
Don't let fear or uncertainty keep you from seeking answers. If you've found a lump in your testicle or a bump on your scrotum, schedule an appointment at Advanced Urology as soon as possible. With multiple locations across Georgia, we're ready to assist you. Contact us today.
