Testicular Ultrasound

What is a testicular ultrasound?

A testicular ultrasound is an imaging test that uses high-frequency sound waves to take images (sonograms) of your testicles and the surrounding tissues in your groin area. Another name for a testicular ultrasound is a scrotal ultrasound.

A testicular ultrasound is safe and noninvasive, which means that healthcare providers don’t have to insert instruments or tools into your body. They convert electricity into high-frequency sound waves. The way the sound waves bounce off the structures inside your body is what allows the ultrasound machine to create the images.

Why would you need a testicular ultrasound?

A healthcare provider may order a testicular ultrasound to diagnose a condition or take a closer look at symptoms that affect your testicles or the surrounding areas. A testicular ultrasound can help identify:

• A physical injury (trauma).
• Lumps that may be fluid-filled sacs (cysts) or testicular cancer.
• Undescended testicles.
• Enlarged scrotal veins (varicoceles).
• A twisted spermatic cord (testicular torsion).
• Inguinal hernia.
• How blood flows from your blood vessels into your testicles.
• Fluid around your testicle (hydrocele).

How does a testicular ultrasound work?

A testicular ultrasound uses a handheld transducer to produce images. A transducer is a special medical instrument that emits ultrasound waves. It also detects the waves when they bounce back off your testicles and soft tissues. It then converts the waves into electrical signals, which a computer converts into images or videos and displays on a screen.

A healthcare provider will apply a thin layer of gel to your scrotum and any other nearby areas they need to look at. The gel helps conduct sound waves and prevents air pockets from forming between your skin and the transducer. Air pockets can prevent the ultrasound waves from passing into your body.

Do ultrasounds use radiation?

No. Unlike X-rays, ultrasounds don’t use radiation to take images of your body.

How do I prepare for a testicular ultrasound?

You must remove your clothing and any jewelry from your waist down. It’s a good idea to wear comfortable, loose-fitting clothing, such as shorts or sweatpants. A healthcare provider may give you a gown to change into before a testicular ultrasound.

Do you need to shave for a testicular ultrasound?

No, you don’t need to shave before a testicular ultrasound.

What kind of healthcare provider performs a testicular ultrasound?

An ultrasound technician (diagnostic medical sonographer) performs a testicular ultrasound. After performing an ultrasound, they’ll analyze the images and report their findings to a medical doctor who specializes in diagnosing conditions with imaging equipment (radiologist).

What can I expect from a testicular ultrasound?

A testicular ultrasound typically follows these steps.

• In most cases, you’ll lie on your back on an adjustable table during a testicular ultrasound. The ultrasound technician may ask you to turn to a side to get a clearer image.
• The technician will apply a water-soluble gel to your testicles and any other areas they may need to examine.
• The technician will gently move a transducer back and forth across your testicles. They may ask you to be still, relax or hold your breath if they need clearer images.
• The technician will wipe the gel off your testicles once they get enough images.

How uncomfortable is a testicular ultrasound?

A testicular ultrasound isn’t painful. But you may feel some discomfort or pain as the ultrasound technician moves the transducer if you have a condition that causes pain or swelling in your testicles or the surrounding areas.

Some people may feel awkward before a testicular ultrasound. The healthcare provider will try to help you relax and feel comfortable.

How long does a testicular ultrasound take?

A testicular ultrasound usually takes fewer than 30 minutes to complete.

What to expect after a testicular ultrasound?

Once the ultrasound technician gets enough images, they’ll wipe the gel off your testicles. There’s no recovery period after a testicular ultrasound, so you can return to your normal activities.

Does a testicular ultrasound have any risks or side effects?

No, a testicular ultrasound is a safe procedure with no harmful side effects.

How long will it take to get testicular ultrasound results?

You should get your testicular ultrasound results shortly after your appointment, usually the same day. A radiologist will explain their findings to you, or they’ll explain it to your provider, who will then call you.

How accurate is a testicular ultrasound?

A testicular ultrasound can find abnormalities in your scrotum on your testicles or in the surrounding areas. But it may not accurately determine blood flow to your testicles or locate undescended testicles in your abdomen. A healthcare provider may need to order additional tests to make an exact diagnosis.

When should I call my doctor?

Call a healthcare provider if you don’t get your testicular ultrasound results within a day or two. You may also need to call a provider to schedule follow-up appointments.

How much does a testicular ultrasound cost without insurance?

The cost of a testicular ultrasound without insurance depends on your healthcare provider and the medical facility. But you should expect to pay around $1,000 if you don’t have insurance. Talk to a healthcare provider to get a more accurate price.