Bruise of the Testicles or Scrotum
A bruise happens when small blood vessels break open and leak blood into the nearby area. A testicle or scrotum bruise can result from a bump, hit, or fall. Symptoms include skin discoloration and swelling. The area may be very painful. You may have trouble walking. You may also feel nauseated.
An imaging test, such as ultrasound, may be done to check for damage to the testicles and the injured area. If a large amount of fluid has collected, it may be drained.
Pain may restrict your ability to walk for a few days. Rest and limit activities that are painful until your symptoms improve. Swelling should go down in a few days. Bruising may take a few weeks to go away. As it heals, the bruise will change color. It will likely turn from a red, purple, blue, or greenish color to a light yellow. This is normal.
Home care
Here is how to take care of yourself at home:
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You may be prescribed medicines for pain and swelling. Take them exactly as directed.
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To help ease pain and swelling, you can also try these:
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Lie on your back and pull your knees to your chest if you can. Hold this position for as long as you feel comfortable.
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Apply a cold pack to the site. Do this for 10 minutes every hour, or as directed by your healthcare provider. To make a cold pack, put ice cubes in a plastic bag that seals at the top. Wrap the bag in a clean, thin towel or cloth. Never put ice or an ice pack directly on the skin.
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Keep the scrotum raised (elevated) on a rolled towel when possible.
Follow-up care
Follow up with your healthcare provider, or as advised.
When to get medical care
Call your healthcare provider right away if any of these occur:
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Fever of 100.4°F (38°C) or higher, or as advised by your provider
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Bruise gets larger or doesn’t get any smaller
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Swelling doesn’t improve or gets worse
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Pain is not eased with pain medicines
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Inability to urinate
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Discharge (pus) from the penis
Online Medical Reviewer:
Marc Greenstein MD
Online Medical Reviewer:
Marianne Fraser MSN RN
Online Medical Reviewer:
Raymond Kent Turley BSN MSN RN
Date Last Reviewed:
12/1/2022
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