Sometimes you may feel a little pain in your testicles, or a small lump that you can feel in your hand. Or you may have swelling after an accident, such as while playing cricket. When you go to see a doctor at a time like this, and he tells you, 'Let's do an ultrasound scan,' it's normal to be a little scared and curious about it. 'You mean a scan? Will it hurt? Is it a big deal?' Many questions may arise in your mind. So today, let's talk about what a testicular ultrasound is, what it can find, and whether you should be afraid of it or not.
What is this testicular ultrasound?
Simply put, this is a painless, non-invasive test. It's similar to an ultrasound scan that checks for fetal movements during pregnancy. It uses high-frequency sound waves that are inaudible to our ears to create clear images (sonograms) of your testicles and the surrounding tissue on a computer screen. This is sometimes called a Scrotal Ultrasound.
The most important thing is that this is not something that is done by making any cuts or incisions in the body. Also , there is no radiation that is harmful to the body like in X-rays. Therefore, this is a very safe test. These images are created by sending sound waves into the body and reflecting them back.
For what reasons would a doctor recommend this scan?
There are several reasons why a doctor might order this scan. It can be very helpful, whether it's to get a deeper look at a symptom you're experiencing or to accurately diagnose a medical condition. Let's take a look at the main reasons.
| Reason for referral for scan | A simple explanation |
|---|---|
| Physical injury (Trauma) | Check for internal damage or bleeding after an accident to the scrotum area, such as a fall while playing sports. |
| Lumps that can be caught in the hand | This scan is essential to accurately differentiate and identify whether this lump is a fluid-filled cyst , a solid mass, or a sign of testicular cancer . |
| Undescended testicles | Especially in young children, when the testicles have not descended properly into the scrotum, it is important to find the exact location of the testicles. |
| Varicoceles | The veins in the testicles become swollen and knotted. This can sometimes cause infertility. |
| Testicular torsion | This is a very serious condition. The twisting of the blood vessel that supplies the testicle with blood causes severe pain and swelling. A scan can quickly determine if blood flow has stopped and prompt referral for emergency surgery. |
| Inguinal hernia | Check to see if part of the intestine has entered the scrotum through the groin. |
| Hydrocele | Confirm the swelling caused by fluid filling a sac around the scrotum. |
How should I prepare before the scan?
This doesn't require much preparation. That's the biggest convenience of this.
- Clothing: You will be asked to remove any clothing below the waist and any jewelry you are wearing. So it is wise to wear loose, easily removable clothing (such as shorts or sweatpants). You may be given a separate gown to wear.
- Shaving: A question many people have is whether they should shave before going for this. No, it is not necessary at all.
What to expect during the scan?
When you go into the scanning room, this is what usually happens.
1. Position: You will first be asked to lie face up on an examination table. Sometimes you may be turned on your side to get clearer images.
2. The gel: Next, the ultrasound technician will apply a cold, water-based gel to your scrotum. This gel is applied to prevent air bubbles from getting trapped between the transducer and your skin. If there is air, the sound waves won't travel as well into your body.
3. Scanning: Next, a small, hand-held device (transducer) is slowly moved over the gel-coated area. During this time, images of your testicles are created on a computer screen. If you need to get clearer images, you may be asked to remain still for a while or hold your breath for a few seconds.
4. Finishing: After taking all the necessary images, the technician wipes off the applied gel. The entire process usually takes a short time, about 15-30 minutes .
Is this painful?
No. A testicular ultrasound is usually painless. However, if you already have pain, swelling, or an injury to your testicles, you may feel some discomfort or mild pain as the scanning device is passed through them.
Some people may feel a little embarrassed or uncomfortable about undergoing this type of test. It's very common. But remember, the person doing the scan is a medical professional. For them, this is a routine, everyday task. They will do their best to put you at ease and not make you uncomfortable.
What happens after the scan? When will I receive the report?
You can go home as soon as the scan is finished. There is nothing to rest or take special care of after this. You can continue with your normal activities as usual.
The images obtained from the scan are examined by a radiologist and a report is prepared. This report is usually given to your treating doctor that same evening or the next day . The doctor will then call you to discuss the report. If you have not heard from your doctor within a couple of days, it is a good idea to call your doctor and ask about it.
Although this scan can detect many testicular problems, in some cases (for example, to look for an undescended testicle that is high up in the abdomen) further tests may be needed to confirm the diagnosis 100%. Your doctor will explain this to you.
Take-Home Message
- Testicular Ultrasound is a very safe, painless , and non-radiographic test.
- This helps to accurately diagnose many things, such as testicular pain, swelling, lumps in the hand, and conditions that occur after an accident.
- This test takes less than 30 minutes and does not require any special preparation (such as fasting or hair removal).
- It's normal to feel some discomfort or embarrassment during the test, but remember that the medical staff is acting professionally.
- If your doctor orders a scan like this, don't be afraid of it, but consider it a very important step in the diagnosis. It will pave the way for you to get the right treatment for your problem sooner rather than later.
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