Lump on Testicle: What It Feels Like & When to Get It Scanned
Most testicular and scrotal lumps are not cancer, but a new lump—especially one within the testicle—should be assessed promptly. Ultrasound can show where it sits and whether it is fluid-filled or solid.
You may notice a lump in the shower or while getting dressed and wonder whether it is new. Looking for reliable information is a sensible first step, but touch alone cannot provide a diagnosis.
Sometimes the normal epididymis is mistaken for a lump. This soft, coiled tube stores sperm and runs down the back of each testicle.
What Could a Lump on My Testicle Be?
In most cases, the cause is a cyst, swollen veins or a collection of fluid. Less commonly, it is infection, a hernia or testicular cancer. The location, texture and presence of pain help guide the assessment.
Pea-sized lump above or behind: epididymal cyst
A smooth, round, usually painless lump above or behind a testicle is often a fluid-filled epididymal cyst.
“Bag of worms”: varicocele
Soft, lumpy veins above a testicle—usually on the left—suggest a varicocele. It may cause a dragging ache later in the day. Read our varicocele guide.
Soft swelling around the testicle: hydrocele
A painless swelling around the whole testicle may be a hydrocele, caused by fluid collecting around it.
Painful, warm lump: infection
Pain, tenderness, warmth and swelling suggest epididymitis or orchitis. Seek prompt GP or sexual-health assessment because antibiotics may be required.
Hard lump inside the testicle
A firm lump or area of hardening that appears to be part of the testicle should be checked promptly. It may be painless and can occur with swelling, heaviness or a dull ache. This does not mean it is definitely cancer, but it is important not to wait or self-diagnose.
What Does a Cancerous Lump on the Testicle Feel Like?
The usual first sign is a firm, painless lump or swelling within one testicle. Other possible features include one testicle becoming larger, a dull ache, or a scrotum that feels heavy, firm or hard.
- A lump or swelling in one testicle.
- One testicle becoming larger.
- A dull ache in the testicle or scrotum.
- A feeling of heaviness or firmness.
Testicular cancer lumps may feel firmer than the surrounding testicle, but hardness alone is not diagnostic. Cysts can also feel firm, and some cancers present as general swelling. A painless lump within the testicle deserves early assessment.
Testicular Cyst vs Cancer: How Can You Tell the Difference?
The most useful clue is location. A cyst usually sits outside the testicle—on top, behind or below it—whereas a concerning solid lump is more often within the testicle itself. You cannot reliably distinguish them by touch or examination alone.
Inside the testicle: requires prompt assessment because most solid intratesticular masses in those series were malignant.
A lump at the bottom may be the lower epididymis or an epididymal cyst, but ultrasound is needed to confirm this.
Painful Lump on Testicle: When Should You Go to A&E?
Torsion cuts off the testicle’s blood supply. A national safety investigation found that the chance of saving the testicle is highest when treatment occurs within 4–6 hours. Go straight to A&E rather than booking a routine private scan.
How to Check Your Testicles for Lumps
Check once a month during or after a warm shower. Gently roll each testicle between your thumb and fingers and notice anything new.
- Normal testicles feel smooth and firm, but not hard.
- The soft tube at the back is the epididymis and is a normal structure.
- It is common for one testicle to be slightly larger or hang lower.
A self-check helps you notice change; it cannot diagnose a lump.
Why Ultrasound Is the Next Step for a Lump on Your Testicle
Testicular ultrasound is the quickest way to see where a lump sits, whether it is fluid-filled or solid, and how blood flows through the tissues. It usually takes 15–30 minutes and does not use radiation.
BAUS describes ultrasound as the gold-standard test when the cause of scrotal swelling is uncertain. NICE advises clinicians to consider urgent ultrasound for unexplained or persistent testicular symptoms.
- Where is the lump? Inside the testicle or outside it.
- What is it made of? Fluid, solid tissue or a mixture.
- How is blood flowing? Colour Doppler can identify swollen veins and inflammation.
Ultrasound is usually the first step. A definitive diagnosis and treatment plan may require a urologist, blood tests and further assessment.
How Much Is a Testicular Ultrasound in London?
Private testicular ultrasound
The full price includes colour Doppler, findings explained before you leave and a written report with key images within 24 hours. No GP referral is required.
Book a Testicular UltrasoundWhat If the Scan Finds a Lump Inside the Testicle?
If ultrasound identifies a solid intratesticular lump, we explain the finding and arrange prompt onward referral to a urologist. Further assessment may include tumour-marker blood tests and additional imaging.
For same-day clinical discussion, the Testes Health Package costs £549 and adds a 30-minute GP consultation, STI screen and pharmacist review to the ultrasound.
Book a Testicular Ultrasound in London
The scan covers both testicles, the epididymides, spermatic cords and scrotum; uses colour Doppler; includes an explanation on the day; and provides a written report with images within 24 hours.
Specialist clinicians
Your scan is performed by a consultant radiologist or ultrasound consultant in a CQC-registered clinic.
Private and discreet
You are scanned in a private room with appropriate covering, and there is no special preparation.
Seen quickly
Same-day and next-day appointments are available seven days a week, 9am–7pm, without a GP referral.
A clear next step
If follow-up is needed, you receive a referral letter for your GP or urologist.
Clinics are at 27 Welbeck Street, near Bond Street and Oxford Circus, and 54–56 Victoria Street, St Albans.
Get a clear answer about your lump
Book a £219 testicular ultrasound for a discreet assessment, colour Doppler and results explained on the day.
References
Frequently Asked Questions
What does stage 1 testicular cancer feel like?
I’ve had a lump on my testicle for years. What could it be?
Is a pea-sized lump on the testicle normal?
Can a lump on the testicle go away on its own?
Medical disclaimer: This article provides general information and does not replace individual medical advice. Sudden severe testicular pain is an emergency—go to A&E rather than waiting for a routine scan.
Written and medically reviewed by Mr Pedram Aghaei, Co-founder and Medical Writer, London Private Ultrasound. Reviewed against NHS, NICE, BAUS and relevant safety guidance. Last reviewed 19 October 2026; next review due 19 April 2027.