Blue Balls Explained: Causes and Treatment Methods Revealed
Its origin lies in the physiological response of the body's genital region.
Were you aware that "blue balls" is a recognized medical condition?
This article will delve into all aspects related to blue balls syndrome and various treatment approaches.
What Is Blue Balls
Blue balls, also known as epididymal hypertension, is a temporary condition characterized by testicular or scrotal pain experienced when a man remains sexually aroused for an extended period without reaching orgasm.
Although blue balls is commonly associated with male genitalia, it's worth noting that this condition isn't exclusive to men — but we'll explore this further shortly!
What Causes Blue Balls?
During sexual intercourse or masturbation, the tension buildup can be relieved by ejaculation. Orgasm brings about an immediate sensation of relief in the genital region and reduces arousal levels.
However, prolonged erection leads to blue balls, which can occur when men delay ejaculation or practice semen retention.
Can a Vasectomy Lead to Blue Balls?
Many men are curious about the effects of vasectomy on their sexual well-being. Although the initial ejaculations post-procedure might cause discomfort, board-certified Urologist Dr. Gary Bellman explains that this form of "epididymal congestion" usually diminishes within the first three months.
Following this period, you should no longer encounter the heavy sensation or mild pain often associated with masturbation or other sexual activities.
What Are the Sensations of Blue Balls?
Men often describe the symptoms of blue balls as an "aching sensation" or a feeling of being "heavy" or "full" in the scrotal region.
Due to the swelling caused by the accumulation of increased fluid and blood, it's typical to experience mild discomfort and even some pain that may radiate up toward the lower back.
While the physical symptoms are typically mild, Urologist Dr. Stanton Honig notes other symptoms associated with epididymal hypertension, including anxiety, irritability, and a strong urge to ejaculate.
What Is the Appearance of Blue Balls?
Because of the heightened blood flow in the region, blue balls (as the name suggests) may cause the testicles to take on a faint blue tint — akin to the discoloration seen when there's inflammation in an injured area, resulting in a purplish or bluish hue.
Once the blood recedes from the area, symptoms typically subside!
What Is the Duration of Blue Balls?
If you're encountering mild scrotal pain unrelated to arousal, along with groin aches, lower back discomfort, or a testicular lump, it could potentially be linked to more serious conditions such as:
- Epididymitis (inflammation of the testicles)
- Infection causing inflammation of the testicles
- Diabetic neuropathy in the genital region
- Kidney stones
- Prostatitis (inflammation of the prostate)
- Testicular cancer
- Testicular torsion
How to Get Rid of Blue Balls
While having a consenting partner to assist can be beneficial, general practitioner Dr. Rhys Young notes that men can help themselves just as effectively!
Here are the top 5 methods to alleviate blue balls.
1. Masturbation:
Masturbation is an effective way to alleviate tension in the body caused by a buildup of arousal. Bringing oneself to orgasm helps release the accumulated sexual tension and allows the penis to relax after being erect for an extended period.
2. Exercise:
Engaging in physical activity, such as weightlifting or cardio exercises, redirects blood flow away from the genital area towards working muscles. This diversion of blood circulation helps reduce discomfort associated with blue balls by encouraging blood to flow elsewhere in the body.
3. Cold shower:
Taking a cold shower can constrict blood vessels in the penis, leading to a decrease in erection size and strength. Alternatively, applying a cold compress to the testicles can achieve a similar effect, reducing discomfort by minimizing blood flow to the groin area.
4. Meditation:
Practicing meditation offers a mental distraction from symptoms of blue balls, helping to lower sexual arousal levels and redistribute blood flow to alleviate tension in the genital region.
5. Over-the-counter analgesics:
If symptoms persist despite trying other methods, over-the-counter pain relievers such as Tylenol or NSAIDs like Advil or ibuprofen can help minimize pain, discomfort, and swelling associated with blue balls.
Can Women Experience Blue Balls
While "blue balls" is a term commonly used to describe discomfort in male genitals, there are also analogous expressions for females, such as "blue vulva" or "pink pelvis."
Certified sexologist Gigi Engle notes the biological similarity between the clitoris and the penis. Consequently, it's logical to assume that women can experience increased blood flow to the vaginal region, leading to pressure, pain, and tension buildup.
KEY TAKEAWAYS:
- Epididymal hypertension is the medical term for blue balls, a condition often caused by prolonged arousal without climaxing or ejaculating.
- Symptoms of blue balls include mild testicular pain, an aching sensation, and a blue-ish hue of the scrotum.
- While "blue balls" is typically associated with male genitalia, a similar phenomenon can occur in women.
- In most cases, neither blue balls nor its female counterpart, blue vulva or pink pelvis, require medical attention. They can be managed with methods like masturbation, exercise, cold showers, meditation, or over-the-counter medication.