This is caused by fluid getting into the sac around the testicles and is NOT a life threatening condition that appears as a swelling in the scrotum. It is more common in newborns but can also occur in both boys and men after an injury to the scrotal area. It forms because fluid builds up and envelopes one of both of the mans testicles. The fluid is sterile and isn’t contagious, so while it may be unsightly, it will not cause any health threats.
Hydroceles very rarely affect testicle function, and does not physically interfere with sexual activity. It simply makes the scrotum look large. There may be a feeling of slight pressure at the base of the penis, a slight pain in the groin area, or redness on or around the scrotum.
Although not dangerous, hydroceles can occasionally enlarge with time, or in certain rare cases restrict blood flow, requiring treatment. If you feel any pain, numbness or discomfort you should get checked by a doctor to be safe.
Treatment of hydroceles is simple, if there is no pain then it will not be treated as they often disappear on their own, especially in older men and young boys. So the best news is for men over 65, for whom hydroceles often disappear totally without treatment. For babies the usual process is to wait and watch for the first year or so of development.
Treatment is usually only suggested for young boys and adult men. The removal process involves a doctor removing the fluid using a hollow needle while the subject is under general anesthetic. Sometimes the fluid returns. If the body doesn’t seal off the opening and the hydrocele reoccurs, another surgery can seal off the passage between the abdomen and scrotum.
