What is the reason for the small balls next to the testicles?

For men, reproductive health is a very important part, and the health of the testicles directly affects fertility. Why are there small balls next to the testicles? In fact, this is a very normal physiological phenomenon, also known as the epididymis, which has a good auxiliary effect on the growth of sperm. However, since this part is relatively special, men should pay attention to daily care and protection to prevent inflammation.

The epididymis is an organ composed of many tortuous and small tubes. It is connected to the vas deferens (Ductus deferens) on one side and to the tortuous and small seminiferous tubules of the testis (Testis) on the other side. When sperm leaves the testis, it goes to the epididymis and continues to grow and mature. The epididymis is located at the upper end and posterior edge of the testis. The epididymis duct is about 4-5 meters long and is coiled to form the body and tail. It helps the sperm mature.

The epididymis is located close to the upper and posterior edges of the testicles and can be divided into three parts: the head, body, and tail. The head is formed by the coiling of the efferent ductules, and the end of the efferent ductules is connected to an epididymal duct. The epididymal duct is about 4-5 meters long and is coiled to form the body and tail. The end of the tube turns sharply upward and continues directly to become the vas deferens. In addition to storing sperm, the epididymal duct can also secrete epididymal fluid, which contains certain hormones, enzymes, and specific nutrients that help sperm maturation.

Causes of Epididymitis

①Secondary to prostatitis or urinary tract infection.

② Prostatectomy, especially transurethral surgery, can cause bacteria to remain in urine for 8 to 12 weeks after surgery. During urination, urine can flow back into the ejaculatory duct, causing retrograde infection and leading to epididymitis. The infection can also invade the epididymis through the surrounding lymphatic vessels.

③ Sterile urine refluxes into the ejaculatory duct, causing chemical epididymitis. Recent studies have found that urine can reflux into the seminal vesicles.

The third cause is not specific. It should explain how sterile urine enters the epididymis and causes chemical epididymitis. Also, will the ejaculatory duct and vas deferens prevent sterile urine from flowing back into the epididymis? How do they prevent it?