Question
My 73-year-old husband is constantly adjusting himself. He says he does this to relieve discomfort, especially when sitting. Is scrotum discomfort a normal part of aging?
Answer
This is not an uncommon problem. The scrotum — the sac that contains the testicles — consists of skin and a thin layer of muscle. As men age, the muscle layer becomes thinner and the skin sags away from the body. A sagging scrotum causes discomfort in some men, especially when wearing tight clothes or underwear.
To relieve this discomfort, your husband should consider using a scrotal support (jockstrap) or supportive underwear. If he has swelling or tenderness in scrotum, he should consult his doctor, as this may indicate an underlying problem, such as epididymitis, that requires evaluation and possible treatment.
Last Updated: 07/27/2006