Pain after ejaculation in the testicles can be alarming, especially if it happens more than once. The pain may affect one testicle or both. For some men, it lasts only a few minutes. For others, it continues after sex is over. It may feel like a dull ache, pressure, burning, or sharp pain and can sometimes spread to the groin, penis, lower abdomen, perineum, or lower back.
Even though the pain may go away on its own, recurring pain after ejaculation in testicles isn’t something you should ignore. Finding the cause is the first step toward getting the right treatment.
What Causes Pain After Ejaculation in Testicles?
Even though the pain is in your testicles, the problem isn’t always there. Several conditions can cause similar symptoms, so an exam is often needed to find the cause.
Common causes include:
- Prostatitis or chronic pelvic pain syndrome
- Epididymitis
- Urethritis or a urinary tract infection (UTI)
- Pelvic floor muscle dysfunction
- Prostate enlargement
- Previous prostate, pelvic, or groin surgery
Prostatitis and Chronic Pelvic Pain
Prostatitis is inflammation of the prostate gland and sometimes the surrounding pelvic area. Painful ejaculation is a common symptom. The pain may also spread to the penis, perineum, lower abdomen, or lower back.
Other symptoms may include:
- Burning or pain with urination
- Frequent or urgent urination
- Trouble starting urination
- A weak urine stream
- Pelvic pressure
- Blood in the semen
- Fever or chills
Some cases are caused by bacteria, while chronic prostatitis, also called chronic pelvic pain syndrome, often isn’t. This matters because antibiotics won’t treat every type of prostatitis.
Epididymitis
The epididymis is a small coiled tube behind each testicle that stores and carries sperm. When it becomes inflamed, it can cause pain, tenderness, swelling, warmth, or redness, usually on one side.
Epididymitis is often caused by a bacterial infection. Sexually transmitted infections, including chlamydia and gonorrhea, are possible causes. Urinary bacteria can also spread to the epididymis, especially in men with prostate enlargement or urinary tract problems.
Urethritis or a Urinary Tract Infection
Urethritis is inflammation of the urethra, the tube that carries urine and semen out of the body. It can cause:
- Burning with urination
- Penile irritation
- Discharge
- Pain during ejaculation
A urinary tract infection may also cause burning with urination, frequent urination, urgency, and pelvic or genital pain.
Pelvic Floor Muscle Dysfunction
The pelvic floor muscles support the bladder and other pelvic organs. They also tighten and relax during ejaculation. When these muscles stay tight instead of relaxing, they can cause pain during or after ejaculation. The pain may be felt in the testicles, groin, lower abdomen, perineum, or tailbone.
Prostate Enlargement or Previous Procedures
An enlarged prostate can sometimes cause pain during or after ejaculation along with urinary symptoms. Some men experience pain after ejaculation following prostate, pelvic, or groin procedures, such as hernia repair or a vasectomy.
When Is Pain After Ejaculation in the Testicles an Emergency?
Seek emergency medical care immediately if you develop sudden, severe pain in one testicle, especially if it’s accompanied by:
- Nausea or vomiting
- Rapid scrotal swelling
- A testicle that sits higher than usual
- A sudden change in the position of the testicle
These symptoms may be caused by testicular torsion, a medical emergency that requires immediate treatment to help prevent permanent damage.
How Can a Urologist Find the Cause?
Your urologist will ask about your symptoms, when they occur, and whether you have urinary, sexual, or scrotal symptoms. They’ll also examine the testicles, groin, abdomen, pelvic floor, and, if needed, the prostate.
Depending on your symptoms, they may recommend:
- Urinalysis
- Urine culture
- STI testing
- Scrotal ultrasound
- Semen analysis
Don’t Ignore Pain After Ejaculation in Testicles
Pain after ejaculation in the testicles isn’t something you should ignore. While some causes are minor, others require treatment to prevent ongoing pain or more serious complications.
If you’re experiencing pain after ejaculation in testicles, schedule an appointment with Oregon Urology Institute. Our team serves patients throughout Eugene, Springfield, and surrounding communities. We’ll identify the cause of your symptoms and recommend the treatment that’s right for you.