Epididymitis (ep-uh-did-ih-MYE-tiss) happens when the epididymis (ep-uh-DID-ih-miss) gets swollen and inflamed. The epididymis is the coiled tube at the back of each testicle. The testicles are where sperm (male reproductive cells) are stored.

Epididymitis can be caused by an infection (including sexually transmitted diseases, or STDs), injury, or problems with the bladder or other parts of the urinary system.

Most kids recover fully from epididymitis and don't have any lasting problems.

Follow your healthcare provider's instructions for:

• Giving your child antibiotics exactly as directed
• Using a scrotal support device, a type of underwear that holds and lifts the scrotum (the sac of skin that hangs below the base of the penis and contains the testicles and epididymis)
• Whether your child needs to go for any other testing
• When to follow up

For discomfort your child can:

• Take acetaminophen (Tylenol® or a store brand) or ibuprofen (Advil®, Motrin®, or a store brand). Follow the directions on the label for how much to give and how often. Don't give aspirin to your child. It can cause a rare but serious illness called Reye syndrome.
• Put an ice pack wrapped in a thin towel on the area for 15–20 minutes every 3–4 hours. Don't put ice directly on the skin.
• Place a towel under the scrotum to raise it while your child is sitting or lying down.

• The symptoms don't improve within 48 hours.
• Any symptoms remain after treatment is finished.

Your child has sharp, severe, sudden, or worsening pain in the scrotal area.

What are the symptoms of epididymitis? Epididymitis usually causes pain and swelling of the testicle. Other symptoms can include pain when peeing or discharge from the urethra (the opening in the penis where pee comes out). The pain usually improves within a few days of starting treatment, but the swelling can take up to six weeks to go away completely.

What causes epididymitis? Epididymitis can be caused by an infection (including sexually transmitted diseases or STDs), injury, medical procedures, or problems with the way the urinary system formed in the womb.