If this is the case, an anaesthetic is required. Self-care action plan Swellings in the scrotum must not be ignored. All men must examine their testes regularly for lumps, just as women are told to examine their breasts. Some people find this difficult, and it may be helpful to ask your partner to examine your testes for you. Sadly, many cancers of the testes are not diagnosed until the cancer has spread because men ignore pain and swelling in their testes, and put it down to an injury.
Regular examination can help to detect tumours earlier.
If you notice any swelling or pain in your scrotum you must consult your doctor. Treatment Twisting of the testis requires an immediate operation to prevent the testis from dying. If it does die, the sperm count may be reduced, although one functioning testis is usually enough to ensure fertility. Infections of the testes are treated with antibiotics and a scrotal support to prevent the testes from moving to a painful degree. Hernias, hydrocoeles, varicocoeles and epididymal cysts often require an operation.