Why might I need a testicular ultrasound?
For a lump or swelling on a testicle, an ache or heaviness in the scrotum, one testicle larger than the other, swelling after an injury, a suspected varicocele, or fertility investigations. Ultrasound is the standard first test.
When is testicle pain an emergency?
Go to A&E straight away with sudden, severe testicle pain, especially with swelling, nausea or vomiting. This can be testicular torsion, where the testicle twists and loses its blood supply, which needs surgery within hours.
Is a lump on my testicle cancer?
Most lumps are not. The common causes are epididymal cysts, hydroceles and varicoceles, which sit outside the testicle and are benign. A solid lump inside the testicle needs urgent review because it can be testicular cancer, which is very treatable when found early.
What conditions can a testicular ultrasound identify?
A testicular ultrasound can show:
- Epididymal cysts
- Hydroceles: fluid around the testicle
- Varicoceles: swollen veins in the scrotum
- Epididymitis and orchitis (inflammation)
- Solid lumps that need urgent review
- Testicular microlithiasis
How accurate is a testicular ultrasound?
Testicular ultrasound is highly accurate, the standard test for testicular lumps: it reliably tells a lump inside the testicle from one outside it, and fluid from solid. If anything is uncertain, a short-interval repeat scan or blood tests are arranged.
Can testicle pain come from somewhere else?
Yes. Pain felt in the testicle can come from a hernia, a kidney stone, a groin strain or a trapped nerve in the lower back. If the scan shows normal testicles, your specialist will consider these and suggest the right next step.
What is a varicocele?
A varicocele is a collection of swollen veins in the scrotum, often described as a bag of worms, usually on the left. It is common and often harmless, but can cause a dragging ache and is sometimes linked to reduced fertility. Ultrasound confirms and grades it.
What is an epididymal cyst?
An epididymal cyst is a smooth, fluid-filled lump at the top or back of the testicle. It is very common and benign, and usually needs no treatment unless it becomes large or uncomfortable.
What is a hydrocele?
A hydrocele is a collection of fluid around the testicle, causing a painless swelling of the scrotum. It is usually harmless; ultrasound confirms it and checks the testicle inside is normal.
How should I check my testicles?
Check once a month, ideally after a warm bath or shower. Gently roll each testicle between your thumb and fingers, feeling for any lump, swelling or change in size or firmness. It is normal for one testicle to be slightly larger, and to feel the soft tube (epididymis) at the back.
Can a testicular ultrasound help with fertility?
Yes. It can show varicoceles, testicular size and other changes linked to fertility, and is often requested alongside a semen analysis during fertility investigations.
Will the scan be embarrassing?
We keep it brief, professional and dignified. A towel covers you except for the small area being scanned, the specialist explains what they are doing, and a chaperone is always offered.
How long does a testicular ultrasound take?
Around fifteen to twenty minutes, including a short conversation and time to explain the findings.
How much does a testicular ultrasound cost?
At Harley Street Ultrasound a private testicular ultrasound costs £250, all fees inclusive: the scan of both testicles and the scrotum, the specialist’s time, your written report and images.
What if you find something?
Your specialist tells you in the room, in plain English, and explains exactly what it means. You will never be sent home to wait for a letter. Most findings are benign and need nothing more than a sensible review date.
Anything that does need attention gets a clear, objective recommendation in your report: monitor, test further, or refer. Follow-up tests can usually be arranged at 99 Harley Street, often the same week, and those results are also explained to you personally.
Do I need a referral?
No. Harley Street Ultrasound is a private clinic, so you can book a testicular ultrasound in London directly online or by phone. No GP letter, no waiting list, and same-day or next-day appointments are usually available. If you are searching for a testicular ultrasound near me from anywhere in central London, we are at 99 Harley Street, a short walk from Regent’s Park and Oxford Circus stations.
If you are wondering how much a private testicular ultrasound costs, the answer is published before you book: £250, all fees inclusive: the examination, the specialist’s time, your written report and your images. Insured patients should bring a referral or authorisation number if their policy requires one.
How soon will I have the written report?
Usually the same day: a Harley Street testicular ultrasound comes with same-day results as standard, and you will already know the findings, because they are explained to you on screen during the appointment.
The written report is prepared by the specialist team and published to your secure patient portal together with your images, with measurements and a clear recommendation, ready to share with your GP or specialist.
What happens after the scan?
Nothing special: there is no aftercare needed. You can eat, drive and go back to work straight away. Diagnostic ultrasound at these intensities has no confirmed adverse effects, which is why it can be repeated safely for monitoring. If your results suggest a next step, your specialist explains it before you leave.
Can I still use the NHS afterwards?
Yes: completely. Coming to us privately never affects your NHS care. Our job is to get you answers quickly; if anything needs urgent attention, your specialist writes to your NHS GP recommending an urgent appointment, so you re-enter the NHS pathway with a diagnosis already in hand rather than joining the queue from the start.
