Top 5 Signs Your Testicular Pain Might Be a Varicocele
Posted on March 11, 2025 by Justin Houman
Testicular pain is never something to ignore—it can be unsettling, frustrating, and downright worrisome. If you’ve been experiencing discomfort in your scrotum, you might be wondering, “What’s going on down there?” While there are many possible causes, one condition often overlooked is a varicocele, a common yet treatable issue that affects around 15% of men. As a leading expert in male infertility and male fertility, I’ve helped countless patients identify and treat varicoceles, restoring their comfort and confidence. In this article, I’ll walk you through the top 5 signs your testicular pain might be a varicocele, explain why it matters, and show you how to get the best care possible—whether you’re searching for varicocele treatment near me or looking for the best varicocele doctor to guide you.
What Is a Varicocele?
Before we dive into the signs, let’s break down what a varicocele actually is. A varicocele occurs when the veins in your scrotum become enlarged, similar to varicose veins in the legs. This condition can lead to chronic testicular pain, also known as chronic orchialgia, and may even impact male fertility by affecting sperm quality and testosterone production. Left untreated, varicoceles can worsen over time, which is why early diagnosis and treatment—often through procedures like microsurgical varicocelectomy—are so important.
Now, let’s explore the top signs that your testicular pain might be linked to a varicocele.
1. A Dull, Aching Pain That Worsens Throughout the Day
One of the most common varicocele symptoms is a dull, aching sensation in the scrotum that gets worse as the day goes on. Many of my patients describe it as a heavy, dragging feeling that intensifies after standing or sitting for long periods. Why does this happen? Gravity causes blood to pool in the enlarged veins, increasing pressure and leading to discomfort. If this sounds familiar, it’s time to consider seeing a specialist like me, Dr. Justin Houman, who can offer expert diagnosis and varicocele treatment near me to alleviate your pain.
2. Pain That Improves When You Lie Down
Here’s a clue that often surprises men: if your testicular pain eases when you lie down, a varicocele could be to blame. When you’re horizontal, the pressure on the veins decreases, allowing blood to flow more freely and reducing discomfort. This is a hallmark sign of varicoceles and something I always ask my patients about during consultations. If you’ve noticed this pattern, don’t ignore it—it could be affecting more than just your comfort. Varicoceles are a leading cause of male infertility, and addressing them early can protect your reproductive health.
3. A Noticeable Lump or Swelling in Your Scrotum
Have you felt a soft, squishy lump in your scrotum that feels like a “bag of worms”? That’s a classic description of a varicocele, often detectable during a self-exam. While not all varicoceles cause pain, when they do, it’s often accompanied by visible or palpable swelling on the left side of the scrotum (where varicoceles are most common). This swelling can contribute to chronic orchialgia, making daily activities uncomfortable. If you’ve noticed this, I recommend scheduling a visit with the best varicocele doctor in your area—someone like me, who specializes in diagnosing and treating this condition with precision.
4. Testicular Pain That Worsens During Physical Activity
If you experience a sharp or throbbing pain in your testicles during exercise, heavy lifting, or even after sexual activity, a varicocele might be the culprit. Physical exertion increases blood flow and pressure in the veins, exacerbating the discomfort. Many men come to me after months of dismissing this as “normal” post-workout soreness, only to discover that treating their varicocele—often with a minimally invasive microsurgical varicocelectomy—resolves the issue completely. Don’t let chronic testicular pain hold you back from living your life; expert care can make all the difference.
5. Changes in Testicle Size or Fertility Concerns
Varicoceles don’t just cause pain—they can also lead to testicular atrophy (shrinkage) and issues with male fertility. If you’ve noticed one testicle (usually the left) becoming smaller or softer, or if you and your partner have been struggling to conceive, this could be a red flag. Varicoceles are found in about 40% of men with male infertility, as the increased heat and poor blood flow in the scrotum can impair sperm production. As a specialist in male fertility, I’ve seen firsthand how treating a varicocele can improve both sperm quality and overall testicular health. If fertility is a concern for you, don’t wait to seek help.
Why You Shouldn’t Ignore These Signs
Ignoring varicocele symptoms can lead to bigger problems down the road, including worsening pain, reduced fertility, and even irreversible damage to your testicles. The good news? Varicoceles are highly treatable, especially with advanced techniques like microsurgical varicocelectomy, which offers high success rates and minimal recovery time. As a board-certified urologist with years of experience, I’ve helped countless men overcome chronic testicular pain and regain their confidence—whether they’re dealing with varicoceles, chronic orchialgia, or fertility challenges.
What to Do If You Suspect a Varicocele
If any of these signs sound familiar, the first step is to get a proper diagnosis. A simple physical exam, often paired with an ultrasound, can confirm whether a varicocele is causing your pain. From there, we can discuss the best treatment options for you—whether it’s monitoring the condition, making lifestyle changes, or pursuing surgery. As the best varicocele doctor for many of my patients, I take a personalized approach to care, ensuring you feel heard and supported every step of the way.
Schedule Your Consultation with Dr. Justin Houman Today
Don’t let testicular pain control your life—or your future. Whether you’re dealing with chronic testicular pain, worried about male infertility, or searching for varicocele treatment near me, I’m here to help. At my practice, we specialize in diagnosing and treating varicoceles with cutting-edge techniques like microsurgical varicocelectomy, tailored to your unique needs. Contact us today to schedule a consultation and take the first step toward relief and better health.
About Dr. Justin Houman, MD
Dr. Justin Houman is a board-certified urologist and expert in male fertility and male infertility, with a focus on treating varicoceles and other causes of chronic orchialgia. With a patient-centered approach and advanced surgical expertise, he’s dedicated to helping men overcome testicular pain and achieve their reproductive goals. Submit a consultation request with Dr. Houman at https://houmanmd.com/contact/ or call 310-854-7822 to book your appointment today.