The testicles and lower abdominal region contain specialized tissues that aid in male hormone regulation and sperm production, as well as musculature and connective tissue that make up the abdominal wall. Abdominal and testicular pain can manifest as sharp stabbing pains, as radiating soreness or throbbing aches, and can develop as a result of a number of underlying conditions.
Inguinal Hernia
One possible cause of lower abdominal and testicular pain is an inguinal hernia. An inguinal hernia develops from a weakening of the abdominal wall in the groin region. The weakening often occurs at the inguinal canal, a small hole in the support for the abdominal wall through which the spermatic cord passes to connect to the testes. A hernia develops when this hole expands, and tissue protrudes through the hole. Men with an inguinal hernia develop a lump in the groin area that can extend toward the scrotum, according to Penn State University. The risk of developing an inguinal hernia increases in age and occurs more often in obese patients, or patients who have lost a great deal of weight. The treatment for an inguinal hernia commonly includes surgery to support the hernia.
Testicular Torsion
Testicular torsion, the twisting of the spermatic cord within the scrotum, can also cause testicular or lower abdominal pain. The twisting of the cord cuts off the blood supply to the testicle and other structures within the scrotum. The result is an intense pain in one testicle that develops without warning, accompanied by swelling of the scrotum, according to the University of Maryland Medical Center. Testicular torsion also causes nausea and vomiting, and may cause a testicular lump or lead to blood in the semen. Men suffering from testicular torsion should seek immediate medical attention since lack of oxygen can eventually lead to tissue death.
Epididymitis
Another possible cause of testicular and lower abdominal pain is epididymitis, an infection of the epididymus, a tissue connecting the testicle to the vas deferens. Epididymitis may develop as a result of bacterial or viral infection, causing swelling, redness, inflammation and pain, according to the University of Maryland Medical Center. Often, the infection begins in the bladder or urethra and migrates into the epididymus, so patients with epididymitis commonly experience pain in the testicles and lower abs. Treatment for epididymitis generally involves antibiotics to clear up the underlying infection, as well as pain-killing medication to ease the symptoms of the disease. If left untreated, the infection can lead to long-term pain.
