Groin pain after sex in men: what to know

Sex can load the hip flexors, inner-thigh muscles and pelvic floor, especially when pain follows a particular position or improves with rest. A deep ache may be felt in the hip crease, pubic region, lower abdomen, perineum or scrotum. Hip impingement, a hip labral tear and hip osteoarthritis can present with groin pain, while urinary or reproductive conditions may cause burning urination, discharge, fever, blood, scrotal tenderness or pain with ejaculation. These associated features change the kind of assessment needed.

Stop the movement that triggers pain and avoid repeated testing of it. Keep activity light and comfortable, and avoid heavy lifting or forceful stretching during a flare. A warm pack may ease muscle tightness; use a cold pack after a suspected strain if it feels better. If symptoms repeat, a clinician can examine the hip, abdomen, groin and scrotum and arrange appropriate tests. Physiotherapy may help when movement or pelvic-floor loading is involved.

Seek urgent care for sudden intense testicular or groin pain, a high-riding or swollen testicle, nausea or vomiting with testicular pain, fever, faintness, blood in urine, inability to pass urine, or a painful new groin bulge. Arrange a prompt appointment for recurring pain, painful ejaculation, discharge, urinary changes or symptoms that restrict walking or intimacy.

Tell the clinician exactly when pain begins, whether it reaches the testicle or perineum, and whether urination or ejaculation changes. Ask whether the hip and pelvic floor need assessment, whether infection or another cause should be excluded, and which activity is safe while you recover.