Preparing for an appointment

If you're having pain, seek emergency care. If you detect a scrotal mass, you'll probably start by seeing your family doctor. You might be referred to a specialist in urinary tract and male genital disorders (urologist).

Preparing for your or your child's appointment with your doctor or a urologist will help you make the most of your time with the doctor.

What you can do

Write down information to share with your doctor, including:

• Symptoms you're experiencing, including any that may seem unrelated to a scrotal mass
• Key personal information, including major stresses or recent life changes
• Medications, vitamins and supplements you're taking
• Family history of testicular cancer or other disorders of the scrotum
• Personal medical history, including previous scrotal masses, undescended testicle or congenital defects related to the genitals
• Questions to ask your doctor

Questions about scrotal masses might include:

• What tests will I need?
• How long will it take to get the test results?
• If the scrotal mass is cancerous (malignant), what are the next steps?
• If the scrotal mass isn't cancerous, will I need treatment?
• Are there brochures or other printed material that I can take with me? What websites do you recommend?

Don't hesitate to ask any other questions.

What to expect from your doctor

Your doctor is likely to ask you a number of questions, including:

• When did you discover a lump or experience other symptoms associated with a scrotal mass?
• Are you having or have you had pain in or near your scrotum?
• Have you had fever or blood or pus in your urine?
• Have you had a recent injury to the groin?
• Does anything, such as pain medication, improve your symptoms?
• Does anything worsen symptoms, such as exercise or exertion that puts a strain on the groin?
• Did you have an undescended or retractile testicle that was corrected with surgery?
• Have you ever had a sexually transmitted infection?
• Do you have multiple sex partners or a new sex partner?