How Your Testicles Work
What's normal, what's not and everything in between
Testicles / What’s normal for your nuts
How’s your pair hangin’?
Our interactive pear shows you how to check your pair in three easy steps — and explains what to look for while you're down there.
The low down on testicles
There’s a lot going on in your nuts. They make sperm. They produce the hormone testosterone — which regulates things like sex drive, muscle and bone growth. And, as anyone who’s ever been kicked in the nuts knows, they’re a sensitive part of the body.
On this page, we'll explore what's normal and what's not when it comes to your nuts.
What's normal for your nuts
No two nuts are the same. What's normal for you could be totally different to someone else's norm. That's why we recommend you have a good feel of yours — so you can look for unusual changes over time.
What should my testicles look and feel like?
Your testicles should feel pretty smooth and firm. Sensitive, but not painful. You may feel a soft tube at the back of each testicle, which is called the epididymis and is totally normal.
Is it normal to have one testicle that's bigger than the other?
Yes. Having one testicle slightly bigger than the other is normal. It's often the right nut — and it might feel like it hangs lower too. If the change in size has felt sudden, however, it's worth seeing your doctor.
What's unusual for your nuts
Once you've got a feel for what's normal for your nuts, keep the ball rolling and check for changes over time. A change doesn't automatically mean something is wrong, but you’ll need to let a doctor be the judge.
What are testicular lumps?
Lumps and bumps can be a normal part of testicle ownership. Lumps can come in all shapes and sizes, be painful or not painful. If you've noticed a change or found something that wasn't there before, it's best to get it checked out by a doc.
What causes swelling in the testicles?
It's not unusual for one testicle to be slightly bigger than the other — but keep an eye out for unusual swelling. Swelling can also come with a heavy, pulling sensation or a dull ache in your nut sack.
Swelling can be from a knock to your nuts — or could mean there is something else at play. Like a build up of fluid, an infection or another cause. Book in with a doctor so they can check things over.
I've got a painful testicle. What should I do?
Your testicles should feel sensitive but not painful.
It’s worth noting that pain feels different to different people. A change in sensation, a dull ache or sharp pain are all examples of things to pay attention to.
If you've developed pain in one or both testicles — and the pain hasn't settled down — it's best to get checked.
Found something?
Lumps, bumps and aches can be a normal part of testicle ownership. But if you've noticed something that wasn't there before — or something is changing — it's time to tee up a visit to the doctor. Our guide explains what to expect from your appointment.