A testicular contusion is the medical term for a bruised testicle, an injury typically caused by blunt force trauma to the scrotum. Because the testicles hang outside the body, they lack skeletal protection, making them vulnerable to impact. Although the testicles are resilient and often absorb shock without permanent damage, the injury itself is highly sensitive and causes significant immediate distress. Understanding the visual and physical signs of this trauma is important for assessing the severity.
The Visual Signs of a Bruised Scrotum
The most direct visual indicator of a bruised testicle is discoloration, known as ecchymosis, which occurs when small blood vessels beneath the skin rupture and leak blood. Immediately following the trauma, the scrotum may appear red or purplish due to the pooling of blood. As the bruise resolves, the hemoglobin breaks down, causing the color to change progressively from dark blue or black to green, eventually fading to a yellowish hue.
Swelling, or edema, is a common visual component of a testicular contusion and can be mild to severe. This rapid enlargement of the scrotal sac is caused by the inflammatory response and the collection of blood (hematoma) within the scrotal tissues. Discoloration and swelling may extend visibly onto the groin area or the inner thigh.
Associated Symptoms Beyond Appearance
While discoloration and swelling are visible signs, a bruised testicle is immediately accompanied by other distinct physical sensations. Pain is the primary symptom, ranging from an initial, intense, sharp pain to a dull, throbbing ache as the hours pass. This localized tenderness worsens with any attempt to touch or move the affected area.
The trauma can also trigger a systemic reaction known as a vasovagal response. This manifests as immediate, temporary nausea, often accompanied by lightheadedness or a feeling of faintness. These symptoms are short-lived in a minor contusion, subsiding as the initial shock wears off.
Recognizing Emergency Indicators
It is essential to distinguish a simple contusion from a severe medical emergency, such as testicular rupture or torsion, which requires immediate intervention. Severe, unrelenting pain that does not subside within an hour following the injury is a primary sign of a serious underlying problem. Pain accompanied by a high fever is also a red flag, potentially indicating an infection or complication that necessitates urgent medical assessment.
Changes in testicle position are concerning for testicular torsion, which is a twisting of the spermatic cord that cuts off blood supply. A testicle that appears abnormally high or is positioned horizontally instead of vertically suggests this medical emergency. Significant and rapid swelling that feels unusually hard or solid, or the inability to locate the testicle within the scrotum, indicates a potential rupture or large hematoma. These signs demand immediate emergency department care, as delays can lead to testicle loss.
Immediate Action and Recovery Timeline
For a minor contusion where emergency indicators have been ruled out, initial care focuses on reducing discomfort and managing swelling. Resting and limiting physical activity for the first 24 to 48 hours prevents further irritation. Applying a cold compress, wrapped in a cloth, to the affected area for short intervals helps minimize swelling and pain.
Supporting the scrotum with snug underwear or an athletic supporter reduces movement and provides gentle compression, which aids in reducing edema. Over-the-counter pain relievers, such as acetaminophen or ibuprofen, manage pain and inflammation. Visible bruising typically resolves completely within 7 to 14 days.