Testicles, also known as testes or gonads, or more frankly, balls, play a crucial role in male reproductive health. Here’s 9 things you should know about your family jewels.
1. Anatomy of the Testicles
The testicles are oval-shaped organs that sit in a pouch-like structure called the scrotum, located under the penis. They are typically 2 inches long and an inch in diameter. Each testicle is surrounded by two layers of tissue, the inner layer being the tunica albuginea and the outer layer being the tunica vaginalis.
Inside the testicles are coiled masses of tubes called seminiferous tubules. These tubules are responsible for producing sperm cells. Between these tubules are Leydig cells, which produce testosterone, the primary male sex hormone.
Attached to the back of each testicle is the epididymis, a long, coiled tube where sperm mature and are stored until ejaculation.
2. Function of the Testicles
The testicles have two main functions: producing sperm and producing testosterone. Sperm production, or spermatogenesis, occurs within the seminiferous tubules. It takes about 64 to 72 days for a sperm cell to fully mature.
Testosterone production is stimulated by the luteinizing hormone (LH) released by the pituitary gland. This hormone is crucial for the development of male secondary sexual characteristics, such as facial hair, deep voice, and muscle mass. It also plays a role in maintaining sex drive and sperm production.
3. Testicle Health
Common Testicle Problems
Various health issues can affect the testicles, including infections, injuries, and diseases. Epididymitis and orchitis are common infections that cause inflammation and pain in the testicles. Injuries to the testicles can cause severe pain and, in severe cases, may require surgical intervention.
Testicular cancer, while relatively rare, is most common in men aged 15 to 35. It’s important to perform regular testicular self-examinations to detect any unusual lumps or swelling.
Testicle Self-Examination
Testicle self-examination is a simple procedure that can help detect testicular cancer early. It involves feeling the testicles for any lumps, changes in size, or discomfort. It’s recommended to perform this examination once a month, ideally after a warm bath or shower when the scrotal skin is relaxed.
If you notice any abnormalities during your self-examination, it’s important to seek medical advice immediately. Early detection of testicular cancer significantly increases the chances of successful treatment.
4. Testicle Size and Shape
Testicle size and shape can vary greatly among men. On average, a testicle is about 2 inches long, 1 inch wide, and 1 inch thick. However, it’s common for one testicle (usually the left) to hang lower than the other. This asymmetry is completely normal and helps prevent the testicles from compressing against each other.
It’s also normal for one testicle to be slightly larger than the other. However, sudden changes in size or shape could indicate a health problem and should be evaluated by a healthcare professional.
5. Testicle Temperature
The testicles are housed outside the body in the scrotum to maintain a temperature slightly lower than the body’s core temperature. This cooler environment is essential for optimal sperm production. Factors such as tight clothing, hot tubs, and laptops can increase scrotal temperature and potentially impact sperm health.
Furthermore, the cremasteric reflex causes the testicles to rise closer to the body in response to cold temperatures or sexual arousal, helping to regulate their temperature.
6. Testicle Pain
Testicle pain can arise from various causes, ranging from minor injuries to serious conditions like testicular torsion, where the spermatic cord becomes twisted, cutting off the blood supply to the testicle. This is a medical emergency that requires immediate treatment to prevent permanent damage to the testicle.
Other causes of testicle pain include infections, kidney stones, and hernias. Any persistent or severe testicle pain should be evaluated by a healthcare professional.
7. Testosterone and Aging
Testosterone levels naturally decline with age, typically starting around the age of 30. This decline can lead to symptoms such as decreased sex drive, erectile dysfunction, fatigue, and loss of muscle mass. However, lifestyle changes and medical treatments can help manage these symptoms.
It’s important to note that low testosterone levels can also be caused by conditions such as hypogonadism, where the testicles don’t produce enough testosterone. If you’re experiencing symptoms of low testosterone, it’s recommended to consult a healthcare professional for evaluation.
8. Vasectomy
A vasectomy is a surgical procedure for male sterilization. It involves cutting or blocking the vas deferens, the tubes that carry sperm from the testicles to the urethra. This prevents sperm from reaching the semen that is ejaculated from the penis.
While a vasectomy is considered a permanent form of contraception, it can be reversed in some cases. However, the success of reversal decreases over time, so it should be considered a permanent decision.
9. Testicles and Fertility
Healthy testicles are essential for male fertility. Factors such as varicoceles (enlarged veins in the scrotum), undescended testicles, and hormonal imbalances can impact sperm production and lead to infertility. Lifestyle factors, such as smoking, alcohol consumption, and obesity, can also negatively affect sperm health and fertility.
If you’re having difficulty conceiving, a fertility evaluation can help identify any potential issues. Treatments for male infertility range from lifestyle changes and medications to surgical procedures.
Understanding your testicles and how to care for them can significantly impact your overall health and well-being. Regular self-examinations, maintaining a healthy lifestyle, and seeking medical advice when necessary are key to ensuring your best assets remain healthy.
More from So.Gay:
Finasteride for male hair loss: How it works, effectiveness, side effects, and risks
3 signs your testosterone may be too low
Minoxidil treatment for hair loss: everything to know
4 ways to naturally boost your testosterone
What is PrEP? Everything to know about the HIV prevention pill
