Body & health

Epididymitis

Alsoepididymo-orchitisinflamed epididymis

Not yet reviewed by a clinician. This health entry was written from the public-health sources listed below and is general information only. It is not medical advice.

Definition

Swelling and pain in the epididymis, the coiled tube behind each testicle, usually caused by an infection.

At a glance

  • Inflammation of the tube behind the testicle.
  • Usually caused by an infection.
  • STIs such as chlamydia and gonorrhoea are common causes in younger people.
  • Usually treated with antibiotics.
  • Sudden, severe testicular pain needs emergency care.

In detail

Epididymitis can cause pain in one or both testicles, a tender, warm or swollen scrotum, and sometimes discharge or pain when peeing. In younger sexually active people, it is often caused by an STI such as chlamydia or gonorrhoea; in older people, a urinary infection is a more common cause.

It is usually treated with antibiotics, and partners may be advised to get tested if an STI is the cause. Sudden, severe pain in the testicles can be a sign of a twisted testicle, which is a medical emergency.

In a sentence

  • The doctor said my swollen testicle was epididymitis linked to chlamydia.
  • The sexual health clinic treated my epididymitis and offered testing for my partner.

Common questions

Is epididymitis an STI?

Not always, but STIs such as chlamydia and gonorrhoea are common causes, especially in younger people. A sexual health clinic can test and treat.

When is testicle pain an emergency?

Sudden, severe pain in the testicles or lower tummy needs urgent hospital care, as it may be a twisted testicle. Other pain, swelling or lumps should be checked by a GP or sexual health clinic.

Related terms

Sources

  1. NHSEpididymitis