Can a Blow to the Testicle Cause Infertility?

In most cases, a blow to the testicle does not cause permanent infertility; however, severe trauma can lead to tissue injury, internal bleeding, or, in rare cases, lower sperm quality or sperm count in the future. In these situations fertility may be affected, so take any severe blow to the testicle seriously and see a urologist.

The testicles are sensitive organs whose main job is to produce sperm and the male hormone testosterone. They are enclosed in a layer called the tunica albuginea. This is a thick membrane that surrounds the sensitive testicular tissue and protects its internal structures, including the sperm-producing tubules. Even so, the testicles remain vulnerable to strong blows.

Severe trauma can tear this layer and cause internal bleeding, marked swelling, or even testicular torsion, which is called testicular torsion. If these injuries are not diagnosed and treated promptly and accurately, permanent damage may occur in the testicular tissue and eventually the process of sperm production may be impaired.

The extent of injury can be diagnosed only with specialist examination and ultrasound, and delay in seeking care can increase the risk of permanent fertility damage. Therefore, the best step after a severe blow to the testicle is immediate evaluation by a urologist.

Especially if symptoms such as severe and persistent pain, significant swelling, extensive bruising, change in testicular shape, nausea, vomiting, or even loss of consciousness occur after the injury, you should see a urologist immediately.