HealthSheets™

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What are Epididymitis and Orchitis?

The epididymis is a coiled tube. It is part of the male reproductive system. A man’s two testicles sit inside the scrotum. One epididymis sits behind each testicle. Epididymitis is inflammation (swelling and irritation) of this tube. Orchitis occurs when the inflammation spreads to the testicle.

Normal flow of sperm and urine

Sperm are made in the testicles. Sperm travel from the testicles through the epididymis. They flow into a tube called the vas deferens. During ejaculation, sperm pass from the vas deferens through the urethra out of the body. During urination, urine flows from the bladder through the urethra out of the body.

How the problem starts

The problem is thought to be due to bacteria. If bacteria get into the urethra, they may cause an infection. Infection can then travel up the urethra into the epididymis. This leads to inflammation. Pain and swelling can then spread to the testicle. This is called orchitis. In rare cases, orchitis can be due to an infection with the mumps virus. There are two kinds of inflammation:

Acute inflammation comes on quickly. Symptoms may include:

Pain and swelling in the scrotum

Frequent urge to urinate

Discharge from the penis

Pain during ejaculation

Fever

Chronic inflammation is most often the late phase of an acute infection. Symptoms may include: