What causes testicular ptosis and scrotal skin relaxation?

Testicular ptosis is usually accompanied by loose scrotal skin. Most of the reasons are physiological and are caused by temperature changes. In fact, its appearance can also indirectly regulate local temperature, but there are also some pathological reasons.

Normal scrotal ptosis:

The function of the scrotum, in addition to being an external barrier, is also a unique temperature-regulating function from a reproductive perspective, to protect the testicles inside from always being at a suitable temperature. Careful observation will reveal that when in a cold environment, the scrotal skin will shrink and thicken, causing the scrotum to be pulled up and tense, with a smaller surface area. This can protect the temperature of the testicles in the scrotum from decreasing; on the contrary, in a warmer environment, the scrotal skin will naturally relax and atrophy, causing the scrotum to sag and increase its surface area. This is conducive to dissipating body temperature, preventing the temperature in the scrotum from rising, and protecting the testicles from producing sperm in a suitable temperature environment. Therefore, the contraction and relaxation of the scrotum is a normal physiological regulation phenomenon. This is true for all men with normal development.

Pathological testicular ptosis and scrotal skin relaxation:

Varicose veins can cause scrotal ptosis and lead to male infertility. Varicose veins are a common disease in young men. It refers to the dilation, tortuosity and elongation of the spermatic cord due to blood congestion in the spermatic vein. The incidence rate is 10-15% in the male population and accounts for 15-20% of male infertility.

This symptom usually occurs on the left side. Varicose vein varicocele can cause local discomfort, which is manifested as swelling and pulling pain in the scrotum, which is more obvious when standing and moving, and can be relieved by lying in bed. It can also be accompanied by neurasthenia due to the patient's worry and anxiety, causing abnormal mood, fatigue, insomnia, etc. About two-thirds of patients with varicocele have the above discomfort, and some patients have mild symptoms.