Scrotal Lumps and Bumps
Scrotal lumps and bumps are changes that develop in or on the scrotum, the pouch of skin that contains the testicles. These changes can include lumps, swellings, cysts, enlarged veins, or changes to the skin.
What are scrotal lumps and bumps?
Scrotal lumps and bumps are lumps, swellings, or skin changes that develop within the scrotum. They can affect the skin of the scrotum itself, the testicles, or surrounding structures such as the epididymis and spermatic cord. These changes are relatively common and can affect men of all ages.
Some scrotal lumps are painless and harmless, while others may cause pain, discomfort, or changes in the appearance of the scrotum. In some cases, a scrotal lump may be a sign of a more serious condition, including testicular cancer.
Because it can be difficult to tell the cause of a lump without an examination, it’s important to arrange an assessment with a specialist if you notice any new swelling, lump, or change in your scrotum.
At Welbeck, our consultant urologists provide expert assessment, diagnosis, and treatment for a wide range of scrotal conditions in our state-of-the-art Urology centre.
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Symptoms can vary depending on the underlying cause. Some people may notice only a small lump, while others experience pain, swelling, or skin irritation.
Symptoms of scrotal lumps and bumps can include:
a lump or swelling in the scrotum
a lump attached to or separate from the testicle
heaviness in the scrotum
aching or discomfort in the groin or testicles
sudden or severe testicular pain
swelling around one or both testicles
enlarged or twisted veins in the scrotum
fluid build-up around the testicle
redness or warmth of the skin
itchy, flaky, or irritated skin
small cysts or spots on the scrotal skin
changes in the size or shape of a testicle
a feeling of fullness or pressure
Some scrotal conditions develop gradually, while others can appear suddenly. Sudden severe pain or rapid swelling should always be assessed urgently, as it may indicate a condition called testicular torsion, where the blood supply to the testicle becomes blocked.
There are many possible causes of scrotal lumps and bumps. Some affect the skin of the scrotum, while others involve structures inside the scrotum.
Benign cysts and skin conditions
Small lumps on the skin of the scrotum are often harmless. These may include:
sebaceous cysts
blocked hair follicles
skin tags
angiokeratomas (small dark red or purple spots)
ingrown hairs
These conditions are usually harmless, although some can become irritated or infected.
Epididymal cysts
An epididymal cyst is a fluid-filled swelling that develops in the epididymis, the coiled tube behind the testicle that stores sperm. These cysts are common and are usually painless.
Hydrocele
A hydrocele occurs when fluid collects around a testicle, causing swelling in the scrotum. Hydroceles are often painless and can affect adults as well as babies.
Varicocele
A varicocele is an enlargement of the veins inside the scrotum. It’s sometimes described as feeling like a ‘bag of worms’. Varicoceles are more common on the left side and can occasionally affect fertility.
Infection and inflammation
Infections can cause swelling, pain, and tenderness within the scrotum. Conditions include:
epididymitis
orchitis
skin infections or abscesses
These conditions may develop alongside fever, redness, or urinary symptoms.
Hernia
An inguinal hernia happens when part of the bowel pushes through a weakness in the lower abdominal wall and into the groin or scrotum. This can cause a soft swelling that may become more noticeable when coughing or straining.
Testicular torsion
Testicular torsion occurs when the spermatic cord twists, cutting off the blood supply to the testicle. This causes sudden, severe pain and swelling and requires emergency treatment to help save the testicle.
Testicular cancer
Although uncommon, a lump in or on a testicle can sometimes be a sign of testicular cancer. Testicular cancer most commonly affects younger men between the ages of 15 and 45. It often presents as a firm, painless lump or swelling in the testicle.
At Welbeck, your consultant urologist will begin by asking about your symptoms, medical history, and any recent changes you’ve noticed. They’ll also ask whether you have pain, urinary symptoms, fever, or a history of injury or infection.
A physical examination of the scrotum and testicles is usually needed to assess the size, location, and texture of the lump or swelling.
In many cases, further tests may be recommended to confirm the diagnosis or identify the underlying cause. These can include:
urine tests
STI testing
MRI scan, in selected cases
tumour marker blood tests, if testicular cancer is suspected
An ultrasound scan is one of the most useful tests for assessing scrotal lumps. It can help distinguish between harmless fluid-filled cysts and conditions that may need urgent treatment.
In some cases, your consultant may be able to diagnose the condition during your consultation. However, tests are often helpful to confirm the diagnosis and guide the most appropriate treatment.
Not all scrotal lumps and bumps can be prevented. However, there are steps you can take to reduce your risk of certain conditions and help detect problems early.
You can help protect your scrotal and testicular health by:
checking your testicles regularly for changes
practising safe sex to reduce the risk of STIs
seeking treatment promptly for infections
wearing protective equipment during contact sports
maintaining good hygiene
avoiding prolonged strain or heavy lifting where possible
It’s also important to become familiar with what feels normal for your body. This can make it easier to notice any new lumps, swelling, or changes early.
Many scrotal lumps and bumps are harmless and do not cause long-term problems. However, some conditions can lead to complications if left untreated.
Possible complications include:
chronic pain or discomfort
infection or abscess formation
shrinking of the testicle (testicular atrophy)
reduced blood supply to the testicle
anxiety or emotional distress
complications from untreated hernias
spread of cancer, in rare cases
Prompt assessment and treatment can help reduce the risk of complications and provide reassurance if the lump is harmless.
Treatment depends on the underlying cause of the lump or swelling. Some conditions may not need treatment and can simply be monitored, while others require medication or surgery.
Treatment options may include:
monitoring harmless cysts or hydroceles
antibiotics for infections
pain relief medication
drainage of abscesses
varicocele treatment or surgery
hydrocele repair surgery
removal of cysts or skin lesions
emergency surgery for testicular torsion
treatment for testicular cancer, including surgery and specialist care
At Welbeck, your consultant will create a personalised treatment plan based on your diagnosis, symptoms, and overall health.
At Welbeck, our consultant urologists are experts in their field and are dedicated to providing world-class care to every patient.
With access to colleagues across other specialties, our consultants are also able to refer within the Welbeck ecosystem if needed to ensure you receive the best possible treatment as quickly as possible, all under one roof.
All appointments, testing, treatment, and follow-up appointments take place within our state-of-the-art facilities, enabling us to deliver accurate diagnostics and advanced treatments.
Your health is important to us, so we strive to offer same-day appointments whenever possible.
Our consultants are recognised by the major health insurance companies. If you have private health insurance, your treatment at Welbeck can begin once you have obtained authorisation. We also provide care to self-paying patients. Learn more about the different payment options at Welbeck.
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Frequently asked questions
No. In fact, most scrotal lumps are not cancerous. Many are caused by harmless conditions such as cysts, hydroceles, or enlarged veins. However, because some lumps can be linked to testicular cancer, it’s important to have any new lump checked by a specialist.
You should seek medical advice if you notice a new lump, swelling, pain, heaviness, or change in the shape of your testicle or scrotum. Sudden severe pain or rapid swelling requires urgent medical attention.
Some conditions, such as varicoceles or severe infections, can affect fertility in certain men. Your consultant can advise whether further fertility assessment or treatment is needed
The best time to check your testicles is after a warm bath or shower, when the scrotal skin is relaxed. Gently roll each testicle between your fingers and thumb, checking for lumps, swelling, or changes in size or texture. If you notice anything unusual, arrange an assessment with a specialist.