Sperm travels through a tube, called the spermatic cord, that extends just under the skin from the testicle to the groin, where it passes through a small hole in the muscular abdominal wall into the belly. A hernia occurs when the tissue around the hole is torn. Intestine can pass through the hole, creating a bulge in the groin. Holding up the scrotum with an athletic supporter does nothing to prevent a tear in the abdominal wall. Once a hernia forms and the belly wall is torn, it will never close by itself.
Surgery is the only cure.
The only sports that require athletic supporters are those in which the testicle may be twisted, such as diving into water. An athletic supporter holds the testicle closer to the body so that it is far less likely to twist and pinch off the blood supply. Dr. Mirkin's opinions and the references cited are for information only, and are not intended to diagnose or prescribe. For your specific diagnosis and treatment, consult your doctor or health care provider.