Swollen Lymph Nodes in Your Groin

Lymph nodes in your groin sometimes enlarge or swell. This usually happens when your body’s fighting an infection that starts in your lower half. Rarely, there are more serious causes.

You have lymph nodes throughout your body, including a cluster in your groin (inguinal lymph nodes). This is the upper part of your thigh, below your pelvis. Lymph nodes are small, bean-shaped structures that are part of your immune system. They filter germs, cancer cells and other harmful particles out of your body from lymph fluid.

Symptoms of swollen lymph nodes in your groin

If a lymph node is swollen, you might be able to feel it under your skin. It might be painful when you touch it. Swollen lymph nodes can also come along with other symptoms, like:

• Fever
• Chills
• Bumps, sores, or itching on or around your genitals
• Painful or frequent peeing
• Night sweats
• Fatigue
• Unexplained weight loss

You might have some or none of these additional symptoms.

What’s the most common cause of swollen lymph nodes in your groin?

Swollen lymph nodes often mean your body is fighting an infection. These could start from something as simple as an ingrown nail or a bug bite. Common causes include:

• Fungal infections, like jock itch
• Sexually transmitted infections (STIs)
• Skin infections, like cellulitis
• Urinary tract infections

Less common causes include:

• Autoimmune diseases
• Certain cancers, including leukemia, lymphoma, melanoma and cancers that affect your genitals
• Certain medications, including blood pressure medications, antibiotics and others
• Swelling in your tissues (lymphedema)

How doctors diagnose swollen lymph nodes in your groin

A healthcare provider will examine you. They might touch or press on your groin area where the lymph nodes are swollen. They’ll ask about your symptoms, your personal and family health history, and any medications you’re taking. Be sure to mention any vitamins and supplements you’re taking, too.

A physical exam is often all your provider needs to help determine the cause of the swelling. But sometimes, your provider might recommend:

• Blood tests to look for infections and other causes
• Imaging studies, like an ultrasound or a pelvic CT scan
• Biopsy to confirm or rule out cancer

How are swollen lymph nodes in your groin treated?

Treatments depend on the cause:

• Antibiotics, antivirals and antifungals treat infections
• Immunosuppressants, immunomodulators and other medications treat autoimmune diseases
• Surgery, radiation therapy and chemotherapy are possible treatments for cancer

If medication is causing your lymph nodes to swell, your provider may have you try a different medication or change the dose.

How long will it take for the swelling to go down?

It depends. Swelling from infections can take a few days to a few weeks to go away with treatment. Swelling from other causes may take longer to go away.

When should I worry about swollen lymph nodes in my groin?

Swollen lymph nodes in your groin don’t usually mean you have a serious illness. But always talk to your provider if you have concerns. Some signs to look out for are swollen lymph nodes that:

• Don’t get better with treatment
• Continue to grow larger
• Are hard and don’t move under gentle pressure
• Come with other symptoms, like night sweats or unexplained weight loss

Can this be prevented?

You can’t prevent all causes of swollen lymph nodes in your groin. You can reduce your risk of infections by practicing safe sex and having a good hygiene routine. For example, washing your genitals with soap and water and changing your underwear daily can help prevent jock itch.