Urological Health Penis Health Is One Testicle Bigger Than the Other Normal? By Sherry Christiansen Sherry Christiansen Sherry Christiansen is a medical writer with a healthcare background. She has worked in the hospital setting and collaborated on Alzheimer's research. Learn about our editorial process Updated on January 03, 2023 Medically reviewed by Jamin Brahmbhatt, MD Medically reviewed by Jamin Brahmbhatt, MD Facebook LinkedIn Jamin Brahmbhatt, MD, is a board-certified urologist and Chief of Surgery at Orlando Health South Lake Hospital. Learn about our Medical Expert Board Print Table of Contents View All Table of Contents Normal Features Abnormal Features Testicle Conditions Self-Examination Not only is it normal to have one testicle that is bigger than the other, it’s also common to have one that hangs a bit lower. However, asymmetrical testicles that develop suddenly and are accompanied by pain and other symptoms are cause for concern. This article describes the anatomy of testicles and why they may differ in size. It also covers the various conditions that can adversely affect testicles, how to perform a testicular self-exam, and when it is time to see a healthcare provider. Normal Testicle Characteristics The characteristics of testicles can vary from one person to the next but generally have the following features: Adult testicles are roughly 2 to 3 inches long by 1 inch wide.Testicles may be different in size but will usually be of the same or similar shape.Each testicle will feel like a firm, smooth egg.Pain can occur if testicles are hit or roughly handled, but not when they are touched or examined. Asymmetrical testicles are not uncommon. In most cases, they are not a problem. Testicles can be different sizes because the right testicle of a male fetus tends to develop first and more quickly than the left one during pregnancy. What Is the Average Penis Size? Abnormal Testicle Characteristics Having one testicle that is bigger than the other is not, in and of itself, a sign of a problem. Rather than focusing on that, be on the lookout for the following signs and symptoms, which can indicate an abnormal condition affecting the testicles: Changes in testicle sizeChanges in the shape of a testiclePain, tenderness, or swellingA lump or growth on a testicle, with or without painThe sudden retraction of one testicle but not the other If you experience any of these, see your healthcare provider. Testicular Pain Causes and Treatment Conditions That Can Cause Testicle Changes There are some common conditions that can cause lumps, pain, or swelling of the testicles. These are usually not life-threatening but do require medical attention. These conditions include: Hydroceles: This is the swelling of the scrotum (the sac of skin beneath the penis) due to the buildup of fluid. Hydrocele is common in newborns and usually disappears without treatment. In late life, it can develop due to inflammation or injury. Varicocele: This is the enlargement of the veins that transport blood from the testicles. A varicocele occurs when blood pools in the veins rather than circulating as it should. Orchitis: This is the inflammation of a testicle usually caused by an infection. Epididymitis: This is inflammation of the epididymis, a small coiled tube situated just behind each testicle that collects and stores sperm. This is usually caused by an infection. Inguinal hernia; This is when part of your intestines pushes through muscles in the groin and protrudes into the scrotum. Testicular trauma: This can occur during contact sports or being struck in the groin. Testicular injuries can lead to swelling, pain, bruising, and blood in the urine. Testicular cancer: Typically occurring between the ages of 15 to 45, testicular cancer can cause a heaviness in the scrotum accompanied by a painless lump, asymmetrical swelling, and hydroceles. Testicular torsion: This a medical emergency caused by the twisting of the spermatic cord, a bundle of nerves, ducts, and blood vessels that connect the testicles to the abdominal cavity. When to Call 911 Testicular torsion is an emergency that can strangulate blood flow to a testicle, leading to loss of the testicle. Seek emergency assistance if you experience:Sudden, severe scrotum painSwelling of the scrotumA testicle that is suddenly positioned higher or at an unusual angleAbdominal painNausea and vomitingFrequent urinationFever Testicular Self-Examination A testicular self-exam is a manual evaluation to check for lumps, pain, or other unusual change in your testicles. It is commonly used as a preventive tool for testicular cancer. Verywell / JR Bee To do a testicular self-examination: Shower or bathe to ensure the scrotum is relaxed and warm.Stand in front of a mirror if it helps you get a better look.Use the fingers and thumbs on both hands to gently roll the testicle, checking for lumps or any painful areas.Feel along the underneath and back of the scrotum to locate the epididymis (it should feel like a bundle of tightly coiled tubes). Repeat on the other testicle. Recommendations The American Society of Clinical Oncologists recommends monthly self-exams between the ages of 15 to 55 to detect any changes that could enable the early diagnosis of testicular cancer. Summary Having one testicle that is always slightly larger than the other is entirely normal. However, swelling, pain, lumps, or sudden changes in the size or position of a testicle are not. Doing monthly self-exams is a good way to watch for changes that could indicate a potentially serious medical problem, including testicular cancer. Also be sure to keep up with your routine physical examinations. A Word From Verywell It’s important to note that testicular cancer is rare. Although it’s vital to seek medical attention when you find a lump or any other abnormality, there is no need to panic. The symptoms are often the result of a less serious condition. Even if cancer is the cause, early diagnosis almost invariably leads to better outcomes. 7 Sources Verywell Health uses only high-quality sources, including peer-reviewed studies, to support the facts within our articles. Read our editorial process to learn more about how we fact-check and keep our content accurate, reliable, and trustworthy. Vaganée D, Daems F, Aerts W, et al. Testicular asymmetry in healthy adolescent boys. BJU Int. 2018;122(4):654-666. doi:10.1111/bju.14174 Gordhan CG, Sadeght-Nejad H. Scrotal pain: evaluation and management. Korean J Urol. 2015 Jan;56(1):3–11. doi:10.4111/kju.2015.56.1.3 Victoria State Government. Testicular self examination. American Society of Clinical Oncologists. Testicular cancer: screening. Boccellino M, Vanacore D, Zappavigna S. Testicular cancer from diagnosis to epigenetic factors. Oncotarget. 2017 Nov 28;8(61):104654–63. doi:10.18632/oncotarget.20992 Wibmer AG, Vargas HA. Chapter 24. Imaging of testicular and scrotal masses: the essentials. In: Diseases of the Abdomen and Pelvis 2018-2021: Diagnostic Imaging. Cham CH: Springer; 2021. American Society of Clinical Oncologists. Testicular cancer - statistics. By Sherry Christiansen Sherry Christiansen is a medical writer with a healthcare background. She has worked in the hospital setting and collaborated on Alzheimer's research. See Our Editorial Process Meet Our Medical Expert Board Share Feedback Was this page helpful? Thanks for your feedback! What is your feedback? Other Helpful Report an Error Submit