Scrotal Pain: How to Care for Your Child

Scrotal pain can have different causes, some of which must be treated right away. Your child was checked and may have had testing to make sure they didn't need treatment right away. They can go home, but it's very important to keep your health care provider updated on your child's pain and whether they develop any new symptoms. Follow these instructions as you care for your child.

Follow your health care provider's instructions on:

• whether it's OK to give medicine for pain, such as acetaminophen (Tylenol^® or a store brand) or ibuprofen (Advil^®, Motrin^®, or a store brand) 

• whether your child should wear a jock strap or supportive underwear

• whether your child needs to rest and/or avoid any particular activities

• when to follow up and whether to take your child to a specialist, such as a urologist (a urinary and reproductive system doctor)

Your child gets a fever and/or develops discharge from the urethra (the tube that carries pee through the penis and out of the body).

Your child:

• has worsening scrotal pain or pain that wakes them from sleep

• has new or worsening redness or swelling of the scrotum

• starts vomiting or feels sick to their stomach

Remember, some problems with the scrotum need to be treated right away. If your child has any of these symptoms, or any symptoms that worry you, go to the ER right away.

What causes scrotal pain? In kids and teens, causes of pain in the scrotum include:

• testicular torsion: This is when the spermatic cord (which provides blood flow to the testicle) rotates and gets twisted. Testicular torsion usually needs immediate surgery to save the testicle.

• torsion of appendix testis: This is twisting at the top of the testicle, which causes pain and swelling but doesn't damage the testicle.

• inflammation (swelling and irritation) of the testicle

• varicocele (enlarged veins in the scrotum)

• trauma to the scrotum