I have a lump and discomfort in left testicle after vasectomy. Is this normal?

A year and a half ago I had a vasectomy. Yesterday at work I felt some discomfort in my left testicle, I ignored it until I went home and showered. While washing I noticed a lump behind my left testicle, and it felt like I was getting flicked or pulled on. Any ideas?

Answers from doctors (2)


More About Doctor John C. McHugh, MD

Published on May 05, 2017

Always remember that after this period of time the issue may be unrelated to the vasectomy. The epididymis is a linear structure that goes from the top of the testicle on the lateral side and curves around the testicle to the bottom of the testicle. This structure is commonly more sensitive than the testicle and is prone to pain from physical exertion or infection. The fact that you felt it "behind" the testicle makes me think that this is an epididymis issue. It may resolve on its own but if not you may want to see your doctor for two things; to confirm it is the epididymis and to rule out an issue with the testicle proper i.e. cancer.
If your pain and what you felt were above the testicle this is a sperm granuloma and this is related to the vasectomy and only requires attention if pain persists and if so usually resolves with antibiotics.
Your homework: Look up sperm granuloma and epididymitis. Ps... the best time to examine your self is after a hot bath or shower.

Answered by John C. McHugh, MD (View Profile)

Always remember that after this period of time the issue may be unrelated to the vasectomy. The epididymis is a linear structure that goes from the top of the testicle on the lateral side and curves around the testicle to the bottom of the testicle. This structure is commonly more sensitive than the testicle and is prone to pain from physical exertion or infection. The fact that you felt it "behind" the testicle makes me think that this is an epididymis issue. It may resolve on its own but if not you may want to see your doctor for two things; to confirm it is the epididymis and to rule out an issue with the testicle proper i.e. cancer.
If your pain and what you felt were above the testicle this is a sperm granuloma and this is related to the vasectomy and only requires attention if pain persists and if so usually resolves with antibiotics.
Your homework: Look up sperm granuloma and epididymitis. Ps... the best time to examine your self is after a hot bath or shower.

Published on Jul 11, 2012


Steven K. Sterzer, MD

Published on May 04, 2017

Most likely an inflamed epididymis or a late developing sperm granuloma. Eitherway, it should resovle in a couple of weeks.

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Answered by Steven K. Sterzer, MD

Most likely an inflamed epididymis or a late developing sperm granuloma. Eitherway, it should resovle in a couple of weeks.

Published on Jul 11, 2012


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