Epididymitis is the inflammation of the epididymis, which is a coiled tube usually found behind the testicle. The function of the epididymis is to carry and store sperm. This condition can happen to people assigned male at birth (AMAB) and men of all ages. Bacterial infections and STIs like chlamydia and gonorrhoea commonly cause epididymitis.
You may also notice swelling of your testicle, known as epididymo-orchitis. These conditions can be treated by using antibiotics coupled with other measures to relieve the pain.
Book us onlineIf you have Epididymitis, you might notice some of the following:
If you have Epididymitis and it exceeds six weeks or recurs repeatedly, then you might have chronic Epididymitis. You might not notice the symptoms simultaneously as they become visible slowly. Sometimes, your healthcare professional may not see the cause of this condition.
You should call the doctor once you notice swelling or pain in your scrotum. Several reasons can cause it, so proper diagnosis by an expert is advised. Some of these conditions might need urgent treatment as they can lead to permanent damage. If you experience painful urination, discharge from your penis or severe scrotal pain, seek the help of a medical practitioner right away.
This is uncommon and results from the backward flow of urine into the epididymis, leading to a chemical irritation. Strains and heavy lifting can also cause this.
This rarely happens, but there is a chance that tuberculosis will cause this condition.
If you have an injury in your groin, you may also experience Epididymitis.
The most common causes of Epididymitis as a result of STIs are gonorrhoea and chlamydia, and more common in young and sexually active men.
Prostrate and urinary tract infections can spread bacteria to the epididymis. Also, an infection like mumps virus can result in this condition.
There are sexual and non-sexually related things that can increase your risk of having Epididymitis.
Some non-sexual things that can increase your risk are:
Some sexual patterns that can increase your risk of having Epididymitis
This condition, if left untreated, can lead to a lot of complications like:
To prevent STIs that can lead to Epididymitis, practising safe sex is advised. If you have a UTI that puts you at higher risk of this condition or any other risk factor, you should contact your healthcare practitioner for ways to prevent this.
If you have any symptoms relating to chlamydia or gonorrhoea that can increase your chances of having Epididymitis, kindly reach out to us at STI Clinic UK to get tested. We will provide guidance, advice, support, and treatment if necessary to help you stay healthy.