Why does gonorrhoea cause testicular pain?

This can irritate the epididymis, the coiled tube that stores and carries sperm, causing tenderness or swelling on one side. Testicular Pain is a common presentation of Gonorrhoea, but testicular pain has other possible causes.

Pain may develop with burning when passing urine, discharge from the penis, or discomfort in the groin. An examination and sexual-health tests help identify whether gonorrhoea, another infection, injury or a different condition is responsible.

A sudden painful testicle must not be assumed to be an infection. Testicular torsion, where the blood supply can be affected by twisting, is a medical emergency and needs immediate assessment.

Arrange a prompt sexual-health or medical appointment if you have testicular discomfort alongside a possible sexual exposure, discharge or painful urination. Testing can include urine and swab samples chosen for the sites involved in sexual contact.

Avoid sex until a clinician advises it is safe, and take any prescribed treatment as directed. Sexual partners may need testing and treatment to prevent infection being passed between partners.

Go to urgent care immediately for sudden severe testicular pain, a high-riding or unusually positioned testicle, nausea or vomiting with pain, or pain after an injury. These features require rapid examination.

Seek same-day advice for increasing swelling, fever, redness of the scrotum, or pain that is not settling. Do not wait for sexual-health test results if symptoms are severe.

Ask what may be causing the pain, whether you need an ultrasound or other urgent assessment, which infection tests are appropriate, and when you can resume sex or physical activity. Ask how partners should be supported to arrange testing.