Testicular Contusion: Care Instructions
Overview
A testicular contusion is a bruise or a blow to the testicle. A problem like bruising of the testicles most often happens during sports or recreational activities, at work, or in a fall. A genital injury usually doesn't cause long-term harm to your testicles.
Follow-up care is a key part of your treatment and safety. Be sure to make and go to all appointments, and call your doctor or nurse advice line (811 in most provinces and territories) if you are having problems. It's also a good idea to know your test results and keep a list of the medicines you take.
How can you care for yourself at home?
- Rest and protect your testicles and groin. Stop, change, or take a break from any activity that may be causing your pain or soreness.
- Put ice or a cold pack on the area for 10 to 20 minutes at a time. Put a thin cloth between the ice and your skin.
- Wear snug underwear or compression shorts to help support the injured area. You can use an athletic supporter if it helps relieve your pain.
- Ask your doctor if you can take an over-the-counter pain medicine, such as acetaminophen (Tylenol), ibuprofen (Advil, Motrin), or naproxen (Aleve). Be safe with medicines. Read and follow all instructions on the label.
- If the doctor gave you a prescription medicine for pain, take it as prescribed.
When should you call for help?
Call your doctor or nurse advice line now or seek immediate medical care if:
- You have severe or increasing pain.
- You notice a change in how your testicles look or are positioned in your scrotum.
- You notice new or worse swelling in your scrotum.
- You have symptoms of a urinary problem, such as a urinary tract infection. These may include:
- Pain or burning when you urinate.
- A frequent need to urinate without being able to pass much urine.
- Pain in the flank, which is just below the rib cage and above the waist on either side of the back.
- Blood in your urine.
- A fever.
Watch closely for changes in your health, and be sure to contact your doctor or nurse advice line if:
- You do not get better as expected.
Where can you learn more?
Go to https://www.healthwise.net/patientEd
Enter I313 in the search box to learn more about "Testicular Contusion: Care Instructions".
Current as of: November 9, 2022
Author: Healthwise Staff
Medical Review:Adam Husney MD - Family Medicine & Kathleen Romito MD - Family Medicine & William H. Blahd Jr. MD, FACEP - Emergency Medicine
