With the rise in testicular cancer, it is important to perform monthly examinations of the testicles. If you have testicle problems, it could prevent you from creating sperm and being able to produce offspring with your partner.

The testicles are housed by the scrotum. They are 2 oval shaped organs that are found just behind the penis. Once a male reaches puberty, their testicles begin to produce sperm, which is used to fertilize female eggs and produce offspring.

Here are a few common testicle problems:

Missing testicle

Some males were only born with one testicle because the testicle was unable to descend into the scrotum before birth. By the time a male is 3 months of age, the second testicle will descend into the scrotum sac. If you second testicle has not yet descended, it is important to seek medical attention. You may need to endure surgery to remove the testicle from the abdomen and to prevent cancer. Males with only one testicle have a higher risk of developing cancer. Missing a testicle does not mean you are less likely to produce children. As long as your other testicle is producing sperm, you can still conceive children as long as your spouse is able to produce healthy eggs. Some men actually lose a testicle due to accidents. If you have lost one testicle due to an accident and it bothers you to only have one, you can get an implant to replace the missing testicle. The testicular implant is similar to a breast implant in that it is a silicone bag filled with saline.

Epididymitis

This is a painful condition. There is a small tube that carries the sperm from the testicles to the penis called the epididymis. Sometimes the tube can become inflamed and swollen. Normally epididymitis occurs from a bacterial infection following sexual intercourse or a surgery list a vasectomy. Epididymitis can last for 2 months or longer. If you suspect you may have it, take a look at your penis. If it is swollen, painful, and bright red, you may have epididymitis. It is important to seek medical treatment as you may need medication to help cure the infection.

Lumps

It is important to perform self-examinations of the scrotum to check for lumps that may be cancerous. Since most males are able to detect lumps early, testicular cancer is often caught before it becomes a serious condition. If a lump is detected the infected testicle will need to be removed. Some doctors may remove both testicles if they are worried that the cancer may have spread to the other testicle. Testicular cancer is common in younger males, normally from the ages of 20-35. If you have had problems conceiving with your partner due to a low sperm count, your chances of developing testicular cancer will increase. If you notice a lump or you are experiencing pain in the abdomen, have it checked by your doctor immediately. Most males that have lumps on their testicles often feel that the scrotum feels heavier and their groin aches. By the time you are feeling pain, it may be too late to save the testicles, which is why self-examinations are so important.

Hydrocele

If your scrotum is swollen, you may have a build-up of fluid around the testicles. This condition is known as hydrocele and commonly happens to athletes that have been injured. It can also be caused from an infection.

Testicular Torsion

An extremely painful condition is known as a testicular torsion. This is when the spermatic cord becomes twisted and it cuts off the blood supply to your testicles. When this happens you may experience vomiting, swelling, pain, and a fever. The only way to fix this is to undergo immediate surgery before the testicles lose too much blood and become damaged.