Male Puberty Issues / Question
Published: August 7, 2001
Dear TeenHealthFX,
I am a 13-year-old boy, and I play baseball. Last week, I got hit in the testicles (no, I didn't have a cup on) although I am ok now, they were very sore for a few days. My question is could I do permanent damage from getting hit there? Should I wear a cup? What kind is good to wear? How do I tell my mom? (My dad passed away several years ago, and it's hard to talk to my mom about "man things") Should I wear a cup all the time, or just for sports?
Signed: Clueless About Cups
Dear Clueless About Cups,
Your question is a good one that many guys your age are concerned about. Athletic cups are one of those things that you hear about, but are not really discussed. Wearing an athletic cup during sports is a good idea. It is unlikely that you have done damage to your testicles after one hit, you probably just bruised them and this is what caused the soreness. This said, damage could be done after several hits so we want to prevent any further injury.
TeenHealthFX understands that it must be difficult to confront your mom on man like matters under the circumstances. Try to talk to her about it. It may be a good idea to start introducing her to these kinds of things slowly, you may see that she will get used to it and may enjoy discussing some of these man things with you. If you do not feel comfortable talking to your mom about this, try to find an adult male that you can talk to about this like your coach or a friend's father. They would know what kind is the best. Once you find out, tell your mom that one is required to play baseball and ask her to take you to the sporting goods store.
Once you get the cup it is not necessary to wear it all the time. Cups are worn only during athletic activity, when there is a chance that balls or other people could hit your testicles. It is up to you when you feel it is important to wear it. Eventually you will be a good judge of it.
Signed: TeenHealthFX
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