What is Blue Balls: A Medical Perspective on the Myth and Reality
By Dr. Nayana Shetty +2 more
Medically reviewed by Dr. Nayana Shetty
Last updated: Apr 17, 2024Click to rate this article!
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By Dr. Nayana Shetty +2 more
Medically reviewed by Dr. Nayana Shetty
Last updated: Apr 17, 2024Table of Contents
Ever heard the term “blue balls”? Ever wonder what it means? Maybe you’ve heard it dropped in casual talks. Let’s shed more light on it. This blog aims to give you a medical viewpoint on this term.
We’ll explain what blue balls are, their symptoms, and their medical accuracy. Other areas covered include debunking myths, discussing other likely causes of testicular pain, diagnosing and treating blue balls, how to prevent it, and answering common queries. Ready to explore? Let’s dive in!
Did you know?
Even though “blue balls” isn’t a formal name in medicine, it points to a slight, short-lived discomfort in men’s testicles due to extended sexual arousal without ejaculation. Its medical name is Epididymal Hypertension. Epididymal Hypertension results from a fluid and pressure buildup in the male blood vessels during sexual arousal. Remember, blue balls aren’t harmful. Discomfort eases once arousal ends, either by ejaculation or distraction.
When hit by blue balls, men may feel some (or all) of these signs:
When a man becomes sexually aroused, increased blood flow rushes to the genital area, leading to the enlargement of the testicles and penis. However, if ejaculation does not occur, this heightened state of arousal can lead to uncomfortable sensations in the testicles.
If the state of sexual arousal persists without being resolved for an extended period, excess blood continues to accumulate in the testicles. This accumulation can result in the discomfort often associated with “blue balls.”
Despite many men acknowledging blue balls as a reality, several misconceptions exist about it. Let’s explore these myths and uncover the truths.
The major false belief about blue balls is that they are being seen as life-threatening or causing intense pain. But the truth? Blue balls aren’t harmful. The discomfort felt is typically slight and temporary. Moreover, some people think the term “blue balls” indicates the testicles turning physically blue. This is incorrect because a color change does not occur.
Blue balls could indeed cause some discomfort, but it isn’t a serious or harmful condition. It is merely a temporary slight inconvenience that may require a release of sexual arousal to resolve.
While blue balls point to male genital discomfort, women could also feel a related sensation known as “blue vulva” or “female blue balls.” This is due to unresolved sexual arousal in women, where blood pools in the clitoris and vulva. Like blue balls, this discomfort is temporary and safe.
Though it is true that blue balls’ discomfort is mostly slight and temporary, other triggers of testicular pain might warrant medical attention. Find some of these causes below:
Kidney stones can make referred pain travel to the testicles and groin area. Other symptoms may include burning feelings during urination and blood in urine.
Testicular torsion refers to a medical emergency that sees a testicle twist unusually. This causes unbearable pain, and swelling, and could possibly lose the testicle if not treated quickly.
Injuries to the testicles from sports, or being hit by an object, may lead to pain, swelling, and bruises. Serious injuries may need medical attention to rule out any testicular damage.
Epididymitis points to the inflammation of the epididymis, a tube at the back of the testicles. Often resulting from infections, it may cause pain, swelling, and inflammation in the scrotum.
A varicocele arises when the veins within the scrotum enlarge. This results in discomfort, heaviness, or even pain in the testicles.
Other health conditions like infections, sexually transmitted diseases, or even testicular cancer can trigger testicular pain. It’s best to see a doctor if the pain is persistent or coupled with other symptoms.
Severe pain exists only in a minority of individuals that experience Blue balls, and not just a solitary sexual, even some nonsexual activities can help to alleviate the discomfort, always consult a physician if you experience this situation.
Dr. Ashish Bajaj, M.B.B.S., M.D.
Think you’re experiencing blue balls? Wondering what to do or when to see a doctor?
Although blue balls don’t necessitate medical intervention, if the pain is constant, severe, or coupled with symptoms like redness, swelling, or fever, it’s important to seek medical advice.
There isn’t a specific test to diagnose blue balls. Your doctor may ask about your symptoms and rule out other underlying conditions. They would likely conduct physical exams, blood tests, pee tests, or imaging studies if needed.
Blue balls usually result in mild discomfort that resolves on its own. However, there are ways to relieve it faster:
Quick recap:
Blue balls is the slang term for epididymal hypertension. It refers to aching or painful testicles. Some people may experience this symptom after sexual arousal that does not result in orgasm. It usually resolves soon after, but ejaculation may bring relief.
Dr. M.G. Kartheeka, MBBS, MD
There’s no sure way to stop blue balls from occurring, but the following can help lower the chances:
Openly discussing your sexual preferences with your partner may reduce unresolved sexual tension (a cause of blue balls).
Taking care of yourself via regular exercise, healthy eating, and managing stress may aid your overall sexual well-being, reducing the likelihood of blue balls
Blue balls, or Epididymal Hypertension, is a harmless condition borne out of unresolved sexual tension. It’s not a menace to health but can cause testicular discomfort that tends to ease off after ejaculation or distraction. Effective communication and self-care practices can lower the chances of having blue balls and promote overall sexual wellness.
It’s crucial to know the difference between blue balls and other causes of testicular pain like kidney stones, testicular torsion, or infections. If you encounter drawn-out or intense testicular pain, or if other worrying symptoms accompany the pain, seek medical guidance. This helps in identifying and treating hidden conditions.
Even though “blue balls” isn’t recognized as a formal medical term, it describes a condition some men go through due to unresolved sexual arousal.
No, blue balls are temporary and do not result in prolonged damage or harm.
No, the term “blue balls” is used casually and doesn’t mean the testicles physically turn blue but due to excess blood, they may look faintly blueish.
Not all men encounter blue balls. The frequency and intensity of the condition differ from person to person.
Yes, women can also experience a similar condition called “blue vulva” or “female blue balls”. This is when blood accumulates in the clitoris and vulva during pending sexual arousal. Like blue balls, it isn’t dangerous and is temporary.
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