Concern About the Shape of My Left Testicle and Pain in Both Testicles

Published: May 22, 2017
Dear TeenHealthFX,
I'm 17 years old and I'm concerned about my left testicle. It hangs lower than my right (which I know is normal) but it seems like it's not facing exactly the same way as my right. My left testicle is facing upwards more, vertically, than my right. Is this normal? Also, after I masterbate, I always feel minor pain on both testicles but not right after I have ejaculated, around 10 - 15 minutes later. I always thought that was my testicles regenerating after ejaculating, because the minor pain would last for a few minutes only. Is all this normal? I think I should mention that my dad is a diabetic, type 2. And because of the diabetes, he has an erectile dysfunction. I don't have an erectile dysfunction, but could I be facing something serious from my genetics? How can I avoid this if possible? Thank you.
Signed: Concern About the Shape of My Left Testicle and Pain in Both Testicles

Dear Concern About the Shape of My Left Testicle and Pain in Both Testicles,

TeenHealthFX recommends that you meet with your primary care physician or an adolescent medicine specialist who can give you a physical exam in order to determine if there are any concerns about the testicle positioning and size. Only with a physical exam from a medical professional will you know for sure if there are any potential medical concerns.

It is always a good idea to reach out to your primary care physician or an adolescent medicine specialist if you have any questions or concerns about your health. However, even if all seems well it is important to meet with your doctor once a year for a well-visit to make sure you are on course with your development.

If you don't have a doctor and live in northern New Jersey, you can call the Adolescent/Young Adult Center for Health at 973-971-5199 for an appointment with an adolescent medicine specialist or contact your local teen health center or Planned Parenthood. A Planned Parenthood health center is a good option if you have concerns about cost or confidentiality issues. You can also contact your insurance company for a list of in-network providers.

As far the erectile dysfunction, this particular medical issue is an age-related, hormonal problem in men. It can also be a problem for men who have substance abuse issues or who are taking certain kinds of medications. Given you are only 17 years old, and since it does not sound like there are issues with substance abuse or medication side-effects, you are not in a situation where this could be a concern for you.

While type 2 diabetes can be a major cause of ED, since you do not have type 2 diabetes this should not be a concern for you. However, there are many complications that can go along with type 2 diabetes. According to KidsHealth:

Diabetes can cause long-term complications, including heart disease, stroke, eye problems, kidney disease, nerve damage, and gum disease. While these problems don't usually show up in kids or teens who've had type 2 diabetes for only a few years, they can affect them in adulthood, particularly in those whose diabetes hasn't been well controlled.

Because of these potential complications it is very important to make sure you are making healthy lifestyle choices so you do not develop type 2 diabetes. This includes eating a healthy diet (healthy foods and healthy portions), exercising regularly, and not drinking alcohol.

For more information on type 2 diabetes, including how to prevent type 2 diabetes, read KidsHealth article, Type 2 Diabetes: What Is It?. You can also speak to your doctor with any questions or concerns.

Signed: TeenHealthFX

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