A testicular ultrasound uses high-frequency sound waves to build detailed images of the testicles and the tissue around them. It is safe, painless and completely non-invasive, and if you are feeling anxious about the procedure, that is entirely natural. Most people find it far more straightforward than they expected.
Whether your doctor has referred you or you are booking it yourself, this guide walks through what happens, why it is used and how to read the results.
- Welcome and explanation5 min
- Gel and scanning15 min
- Findings explained5 min
View as table
| Part of the visit | Typical time |
|---|---|
| Welcome and explanation | about 5 minutes |
| Gel and scanning | about 15 minutes |
| Findings explained | about 5 minutes |
01What a testicular ultrasound is
The scanner sends sound waves into the scrotum, which bounce off the tissues inside and return as echoes. A computer converts those echoes into a live image, which a consultant radiologist reads and interprets in real time, not sent away to be reported on later.
A testicular ultrasound is one of the most reassuring scans we do. Most of the time it simply confirms that everything is normal.
Dr Tahir Hussain, consultant radiologist
02Why you might need one
The most common reason is a new or enlarging lump, or pain and swelling in the testicles or scrotum. It is also used more broadly:
- To assess a varicocele as part of a fertility investigation, since it can affect sperm quality.
- To check for undescended testicles, where one or both have not dropped into the scrotum.
- To tell apart a solid mass, which may need further investigation, from a fluid-filled cyst, which usually does not.
- To assess blood flow to and from the testicle, which can be affected by torsion or inflammation.
03What to expect from the procedure
Before the ultrasound
There is almost nothing to prepare. Wear loose, comfortable clothing, and remove any jewellery or metal that might interfere with the scan. If you are asked to wear a gown, you will be given a private area to change and full privacy throughout. You are welcome to bring a friend or family member with you for support.
During the ultrasound
You lie on your back while a water-based gel is applied to help the probe make good contact with the skin. The clinician moves a handheld scanner gently over the testicles from different angles, and the images appear on a screen in real time as the scan happens.
After the ultrasound
You can go straight back to your normal routine. There is no downtime, no radiation and no known side effects, unlike imaging that uses X-rays. Your specialist will tell you if any follow-up is needed.
04What a testicular ultrasound can show
- Abscesses, infection or inflammation around the testes or epididymis
- Blood flow within the testicle, and whether it looks normal
- Cysts and tumours, whether benign or malignant
- Fluid buildup, such as a hydrocele
- A scrotal hernia
- Early signs of testicular cancer, including lumps or masses
- Varicoceles: swollen veins that can affect fertility
- Abnormalities in testicular size
05Understanding your results
The radiologist examines the images and prepares a full report. If anything unusual is found: an infection, a spermatocele, varicocele, hydrocele, benign cyst, or occasionally a tumour. Your specialist explains what it means and what, if anything, comes next. If a tumour is suspected, further testing is arranged straight away rather than left open-ended.
06What happens next
If you are experiencing pain, swelling or a new lump, do not let uncertainty put you off booking. A testicular ultrasound is quick, painless and gives most men the reassurance they came in for on the same visit.
