A testicular ultrasound screening may seem a little intimidating when you find out you need one, but once you know a little more, you’ll see that it’s a routine scan that can keep you healthy. We will tell you everything you need to know about getting a testicular ultrasound screening.
This article looks at why a testicular ultrasound is often recommended even when you’re not having symptoms, how it supports early detection of certain conditions, and what to expect before, during, and after the screening. You’ll also learn what kinds of questions to ask once your results are ready.
Let’s start with the basics.
Understanding routine testicular ultrasound screenings
If you’ve been told you need a testicular ultrasound screening, you might be wondering what it can show, and why you might need one. You don’t need to have a diagnosis or even symptoms to benefit from regular testicular ultrasound screenings.
What is a routine testicular ultrasound screening used to detect?
A testicular ultrasound screening is often used when there’s a need to check for things like lumps, swelling, or pain in or around the testicles. It can help reveal if there’s something like a cyst, tumor, or fluid collection that may need more attention.
This type of imaging is also helpful for spotting varicoceles, which are enlarged veins in the scrotum that can sometimes lead to discomfort or fertility issues. It provides a clear, real-time look at what’s going on inside without anything invasive.
How does a testicular ultrasound screening support preventive care?
Even when there aren’t noticeable symptoms, this kind of screening can help catch early signs of conditions that might otherwise go undetected. When issues like a small growth or irregular blood flow are found early, there are often more options for managing them effectively.
It’s also commonly used to follow up on past concerns, like an old injury or previous swelling, to make sure everything still looks normal. Think of it as one way to stay on top of your health and get clarity about what’s happening in your body.
Why are self-exams so important?
Regular self-exams are an important part of testicular health. By checking yourself once a month, you can get familiar with what feels normal for your body and notice any new changes early on. If you ever find something that doesn’t seem right (like a lump, swelling, or unusual heaviness), then it’s important to bring it up with your healthcare provider, right away.
Why do healthcare providers prefer ultrasound for routine testicular screenings?
Ultrasound is a gentle, reliable way to create a detailed picture of the soft tissues in and around the testicles. Because it uses sound waves, it doesn’t involve radiation and can be safely used even for frequent check-ins.
Another reason it’s preferred is because it can show both structure and movement, like blood flow, at the same time. This helps give a fuller picture of what’s going on, whether something feels off or not.
When is the best time to talk with my provider about getting a testicular ultrasound screening?
Don’t be afraid to start the conversation and ask whether a testicular ultrasound screening might be a good next step. Advocating for imaging when something feels off can help catch potential issues sooner, giving you and your provider more information to work with.
Trusting your instincts and taking action can make a real difference in protecting your long-term health. That way, you’ll be able to bring up anything suspicious to your healthcare provider, so they can take some time to ensure your testicular health.
View our available ultrasound appointments at a location near you today
Why providers recommend testicular ultrasound screenings
When healthcare providers recommend testicular ultrasound screenings, it’s often part of a thoughtful, personalized approach to your care. These screenings are commonly suggested when there’s a reason to look more closely at what’s happening inside the scrotum.
How does your age determine whether you should get a testicular ultrasound screening?
Certain age groups are more likely to experience specific conditions that affect the testicles, and this can influence when a screening is recommended. Men under age 45 are more likely to develop testicular cancer, which makes early detection especially important during those years.
On the other hand, older men may be more likely to experience varicoceles or other non-cancerous changes that can still affect comfort or fertility. Screening helps spot these concerns early, often before they cause noticeable symptoms.
How can your family medical history lead your provider to order a routine testicular ultrasound?
If close relatives have been diagnosed with testicular cancer or related conditions, your provider may suggest screening as a way to keep an extra eye on your health. Even in the absence of symptoms, knowing your family’s medical background helps create a clearer picture of your personal risk.
This can be especially useful when combined with other details like your age or past injuries. It allows for a more informed approach, offering peace of mind or prompting earlier support if something needs follow-up.
What conditions can be detected early during a testicular ultrasound screening?
Ultrasound can help identify a wide range of concerns, including benign cysts, solid masses, infections, and fluid buildup like hydroceles. It’s also useful for identifying varicoceles, which can sometimes impact fertility even if they’re not causing pain.
In some cases, early signs of testicular cancer can also be spotted, often before any physical symptoms appear. Catching issues early like this makes it easier to find the right path forward while avoiding unnecessary worry or delay.
What you can expect during a testicular ultrasound screening
Looking ahead to your screening appointment, there are a few things to keep in mind, just to make your appointment goes as smoothly as possible. Here is what you need to know on the day of your ultrasound screening.
How should I prepare for a testicular ultrasound?
Be sure to follow your healthcare provider’s instructions for preparing for your testicular ultrasound screening.
There’s usually not much you need to do ahead of time––no fasting, no special clothes, and no medication adjustments, unless you’ve been told otherwise. It’s a good idea to wear comfortable, loose-fitting clothes to make changing easier if needed.
If you have any questions about what to bring, or how the screening fits into your day, you might want to get in touch with your provider’s office.
What can I expect during a testicular ultrasound screening?
You’ll be asked to lie on your back, and then a clear gel will be applied to your scrotum, which helps the handheld ultrasound device to move easily and to capture accurate images. The gel may feel cool at first, but the whole process is typically painless and quiet.
The technologist performing the screening will gently glide the transducer over the area to get different views of the internal structures. It’s a private, respectful setting, and you’ll be able to speak up at any point if you have questions or feel uncomfortable.
How long does a testicular ultrasound screening typically take?
Most screenings are finished in about 15 to 30 minutes, depending on what needs to be checked, and on your circumstances. Once it’s done, you’ll be able to wipe off the gel and get dressed right away.
There’s no aftercare needed after your appointment, so you can go about your day as usual. Whether it’s a routine part of your care or something being checked more closely, the process is typically quick and low-stress.
After your testicular ultrasound screening
Once your testicular ultrasound screening is complete, you might be wondering what happens next, and how long you’ll need to wait for answers. Here is what you can expect from your ultrasound results.
When are the results of a testicular ultrasound usually ready?
Your results will be analyzed by a board-certified radiologist, and made available to your referring provider within 24-48 hours. Your provider will review the report and your medical history to determine next steps.
Based on the findings, your provider may follow-up with you after results are reviewed if there’s something that needs a quick follow-up. If this is not the case, you can generally expect to see your results about 5 – 7 days after your images and reports are reviewed by a radiologist.
If you haven’t received an update within the time you were told to expect, it’s perfectly OK to check with your provider’s office. Staying informed helps keep you from sitting in uncertainty longer than you need to.
How does my healthcare provider interpret my testicular ultrasound results?
Your provider will look at the images to see if everything appears as expected––things like size, shape, blood flow, and the presence of any unusual areas. From there, they can determine whether more follow-up is needed or if everything looks healthy and stable.
If something shows up, it doesn’t always mean it’s serious. Many findings, like cysts or fluid buildup, are common and not harmful. The goal is to understand what’s going on and, if needed, make a plan that fits your situation.
What questions should I ask my provider about the results from my testicular ultrasound?
It’s a good idea to ask what, if anything, was seen on the ultrasound and whether any next steps are recommended. You can also ask how confident they are in the findings and whether they suggest checking again in the future.
If something unfamiliar was found, asking for a clear explanation in plain language can help you understand what it means. Don’t hesitate to ask how it might affect your health long-term or whether it could relate to any symptoms you’ve had.
How to schedule an appointment with us
Our goal is to offer you and your healthcare provider the most informative results possible, and we make it easy for you to get an appointment.
With numerous locations across South Jersey, you’ll find us conveniently located near major highways and key bridges in the region.
We’ll ensure the entire scheduling process is as effortless as possible for you. Above all, we are here to help you.
Reach out to us at any of the following locations to book an appointment:
- Cherry Hill Office – Cherry Hill, NJ
- Haddonfield Office – Haddonfield, NJ
- Marlton (Greentree) Office – Marlton, NJ
- Medford Office – Medford, NJ
- Moorestown Office – Moorestown, NJ
- Mount Laurel Office – Mount Laurel, NJ
- Route 73 (Voorhees) Office – Voorhees Township, NJ
- Sewell (Washington Township) Office – Sewell, NJ
- Turnersville Office – Turnersville, NJ
- Voorhees (Carnie Boulevard) Office – Voorhees Township, NJ
- West Deptford Office – West Deptford, NJ
- Willingboro Office – Willingboro, NJ
Learn more about the board-certified, subspecialized radiologists who read, analyze and interpret the findings here at South Jersey Radiology Associates.
Frequently Asked Questions
Routine testicular ultrasounds check for abnormalities such as tumors, cysts, or varicoceles.
Ultrasound is non-invasive, painless, and provides detailed imaging without radiation.
Providers commonly recommend ultrasounds for males between 15 and 35, or when specific risk factors exist.
A family history of testicular cancer or related conditions may prompt your provider to recommend screening.
Typically, no special preparation is required for a testicular ultrasound.
You’ll lie down while a technician moves a handheld probe over the testicular area, producing images.
Results are generally available within a few days after the study.
Ask your provider about any findings, recommended next steps, and whether additional testing is necessary.