Andkosh Ki Theli ke Aakaar
The testes produce the primary male sex hormone testosterone, as well as sperm. The average size of a male testicle is about 4 x 3 x 2 cm (cm) and is oval in shape. Most men have two testicles, also referred to as testes. It is common for a man to have a different shape than the other testicle. The testicles reside in the scrotum, with a sperm cord attached at each end.
Does size matter?
Healthy production of testosterone and sperm can occur within a good range of testicular volume. Some studies have suggested that large testicles are associated with higher testosterone levels among some mammals, while smaller testicular volume is associated with decreased sperm production as a reliable source.
If you have a condition such as Klinefelter syndrome, testosterone levels can become a concern, resulting in an extra X chromosome. Symptoms of this condition include small testes or unseen testes, and some female characteristics, such as reduced body and facial hair, and breast tissue growth. Having Klinefelter syndrome usually means lower testosterone levels and decreased sperm activity. Infertility can result.
The clinical term for abnormally low testosterone is hypogonadism. Symptoms may include:
- Above-average testicles
- Breast tissue growth
- Less body or facial hair than male peers
- Other symptoms similar to Klinefelter syndrome
When do testicles start and grow?
A male’s testicle is about 1 cubic centimeter at birth and stays around that size until the testicle starts growing about age 8. They then grow continuously, reaching their adult size at some time during puberty. It is also during puberty that hair begins to grow around the scrotum and genitals. The testicles begin to grow at the same rate, although one may be slightly larger and slightly longer than the other. It is also common for one testicle to hold slightly less than the opposite.
Can testicles shrink
As you get older, testosterone production starts to decrease as your testicles start getting smaller reliable sources. This is known as testicular atrophy. Change is often gradual and may not be particularly noticeable. When it occurs naturally, there is no health hazard. Low testosterone levels can lead to low libido and reduced muscle mass, but these are natural parts of aging.
Some health problems can also cause testicular atrophy, including:
- Sexually transmitted diseases, such as gonorrhea and syphilis
- Mumps, tuberculosis and some viral infections of the testicles
- Blunt trauma to the testis
Other, harmless factors can also cause temporary changes in the scrotum and testicles. Cold temperatures, in particular, can cause “shrinkage”, although it has no effect on the size of the testicle. When exposed to cold water or temperature, the testicle may temporarily retract closer to the body through a mechanism known as a cremasteric retraction. This occurs because the testicles attempt to maintain a particular temperature that’s ideal for sperm production.
Read more:Testosterone test for females: All Details to Know.
Is it normal to have one testicle smaller than my other testicle?
It is very common for one testicle to be slightly larger than the other. There is usually no medical or health explanation for the size difference.
However, if you notice a change within the size or shape of 1 or both testicles, you ought to tell your doctor. If a testicle starts to look heavy or you feel a lump or a change in shape, it may be a tumor and possibly the first sign of testicular cancer. This form of cancer is often successfully treated, but an early diagnosis is important. Testicular cancer or testicular torsion, which is a twisting of the sperm cord that causes pain and swelling, should be evaluated and treated by a doctor as soon as symptoms develop.
Testicular health
Regardless of the size of your testicles, you should do monthly testicular self-examinations to check for lumps or other changes that indicate disease. Self-examination can be done before bathing in the morning or after bathing.
To do a self-examination, take a minute to gently roll your testicles between your thumb and fingers, feeling for any changes in their shape, size, or hardness. Doing this in front of a mirror can help you see what you are doing. If you experience any pain during a gentle examination or you notice a suspected lump, swelling, or other changes, see your doctor soon. Such changes may suggest testicular cancer or infection.
Read more:17 Tips to get Healthy Sperm. You Must Try It.
Take away
The health and function of your genitalia is more important than size. If you feel that your testicles are too small or you have other symptoms that concern you, such as low libido, excessive breast tissue, or infertility, talk to your doctor. Testosterone therapy can often help. If sperm production is affected, there are fertility specialists who can help you and your partner conceive a baby.