What is the scrotum?
The scrotum is the sack of skin hanging behind the penis. It
holds the two testicles (testes or balls) so that they hang outside
the body to keep them cooler than the rest of the body. This lower
temperature allows sperm to develop properly. The testicles should
be about the same size and weight but sometimes they do vary a
little in size, shape and weight. You usually find that one hangs
lower than the other.
There are a number of problems affecting the scrotum and its
contents including:
- Hydrocele
- Vaicocele
- Torsion
- Undescended testicles
- Orchitis
- Spermatocele
- Edpidiymitis
- Testicular cancer
Information on these can be found on the next pages.
As with any medical concern, it is important that if you notice
any unusual changes, seek your doctor's advice as soon as
possible.
Many different conditions affecting the scrotum and contents
produce similar signs and symptoms including:sharp pains, dull
aches, swellings, discharge from the penis, painful urination,
painful ejaculation (pain when you 'come') and even blood when you
urinate or ejaculate. Any unusual or persistent condition should be
discussed with your doctor for advice and reassurance. The cause
may be easily identified and treated. Even the more serious
conditions are more successfully treated when they are dealt with
early.