Spermatocele – Symptoms and Causes
Understanding Fluid-Filled Testicular Cysts
A testicular sac is an abnormal, fluid-filled pouch that forms in the epididymis. The epididymis is the small coiled tube attached to the upper part of the testicle. This tube collects and transports sperm.
These sacs are benign (not cancerous) and typically contain clear or milky fluid that may have sperm cells in it. Most men experience no pain with these cysts.
Doctors aren’t completely certain what causes these fluid-filled sacs to develop. However, they might form because of a blockage in one of the tubes that carries sperm.
These sacs are quite common and generally don’t affect a man’s fertility or require any treatment. Surgery might be recommended if the sac grows large enough to cause discomfort or pain.
- Physical examination – A doctor can often diagnose the condition through touch.
- Ultrasound imaging – To confirm the diagnosis and rule out other conditions.
- Monitoring – Many small sacs need no treatment and can be observed over time.
- Surgical removal – Options include scrotal exploration or microsurgery.
Most men with small, painless sacs can simply monitor them. Treatment becomes necessary only when the sac causes pain or discomfort.
Symptoms
Spermatoceles typically don’t cause symptoms and often remain the same size. However, if one grows larger, you might notice:
- Pain or discomfort in the affected testicle
- A feeling of heaviness in the testicle
- A sense of fullness behind and above the testicle
These symptoms may develop gradually as the spermatocele increases in size.
When to see a doctor
You might find a spermatocele during a self-check of your testicles, or your doctor might notice it during a regular checkup.
Always have a doctor check any lump in your scrotum to rule out serious conditions like testicular cancer. This is important even if the lump doesn’t hurt.
Contact your doctor right away if you have:
- Pain in your scrotum
- Swelling that gets worse
- Discomfort that doesn’t go away
Many different problems can cause testicular pain. Some need treatment right away to prevent complications.
Causes
The exact cause of spermatoceles remains unclear. Many medical experts believe these fluid-filled cysts may develop due to blockages in the small tubes of the epididymis. These tubes normally transport and store sperm cells that come from the testicle.
When a tube becomes blocked, fluid and sperm can collect, forming a cyst.
Risk Factors
Few confirmed risk factors exist for spermatocele development. Men born to mothers who took diethylstilbestrol (DES) during pregnancy appear to have higher risk.
DES was prescribed until 1971 to prevent miscarriage and pregnancy complications. The medication was discontinued after researchers discovered it increased the risk of rare vaginal cancers in women. Since then, no other significant risk factors have been clearly identified.
Problems That May Occur
Male Reproductive Issues
Spermatoceles rarely cause health problems. However, in some cases, they may lead to discomfort or pain.
If a spermatocele becomes painful or grows too large, surgery might be needed. This surgical removal comes with risks. The procedure may damage the epididymis or the vas deferens (the tube that carries sperm).
This damage could reduce a man’s ability to father children. Sometimes, the spermatocele may return after surgery, though this doesn’t happen often.
Male Reproductive System Basics:
- Testicles – produce sperm cells
- Seminal vesicles and prostate – make fluid that combines with sperm
- Penis – releases semen during sex
These parts work together to support male fertility and sexual function.
Preventing Testicle Problems
While you can’t prevent some testicle conditions, regular self-exams help you notice changes early. You should check your testicles once a month to find any unusual lumps or changes.
The best time to examine your testicles is during or after a warm shower or bath. The warm water helps relax your scrotum, making it easier to feel any abnormal areas.
Follow these simple steps:
Look first: Stand in front of a mirror and check for any swelling or changes on your scrotum’s skin.
Use both hands: Place your index and middle fingers under each testicle and your thumbs on top.
Roll gently: Carefully roll each testicle between your thumbs and fingers, feeling for any lumps or changes.
Remember these normal findings:
- Testicles should feel smooth, oval-shaped, and somewhat firm
- It’s normal for one testicle to be slightly larger than the other
- The epididymis (cord at the top of the testicle) is a normal part of your anatomy
When to call your doctor:
- If you find any lump or unusual change
- If you feel pain or discomfort
- If you notice swelling
By doing this check regularly, you’ll become more familiar with what’s normal for your body. This makes it easier to spot changes that might need medical attention.
While self-exams are important, they don’t replace regular check-ups with your healthcare provider. Your healthcare provider should examine your testicles during routine physical exams.
