Last updated on September 14, 2020
Question:
Sir,
Thank you so much for your web site. It’s refreshing to read about such difficult topics in a Christ-centered environment.
I have a question for you: I’m 17 years old and in general, I am very happy with my body. However, one part that continues to give me issues is my scrotum. It hangs down extremely low, so low in fact, the tops of my testes hang below the tip of the penis. It’s so low, in fact, that it sometimes interferes when I’m playing sports or running. They sometimes slap or hit my legs, which sometimes hurts.
My first question is if it’s possible my scrotum hangs too low (as in if it there’s a medical issue). Second, I don’t want to get a jockstrap (it’s embarrassing and I don’t play “serious enough” sports for it). But what can I do to alleviate some of this discomfort? I’ve tried different types of underwear. Briefs seem to work the best, but they chafe the insides of my legs pretty bad when I’m playing heavy sports. My scrotum doesn’t affect me in any other way. I don’t have any aching or dull pains and I don’t have any lumps or bumps. I get a little self-conscious when I undress at the gym, but otherwise, I’m just fine.
Any advice you have for me would be greatly appreciated. Thank you so much!
Answer:
Each person is an individual and different body parts can be of different sizes between individuals. For whatever reason, you have longer than average spermatic cords — the cords that hold up the testicles. This then becomes a given for your particular body.
To give an example, I was born with very light color skin. The result is that I cannot be out in the sun for more than 30 minutes without burning. It means I have to put on sunscreen when I’m outside for an extended period. I hate wearing sunscreen, but you know what? I hate having cancer worse, so I put it on.
The fact of life for you is that your long spermatic cords mean you need to have extra support when you are active. A jockstrap serves that function, even if it isn’t fashionable. Another option is compression shorts. What isn’t an option is putting your testicles in jeopardy of harm just because you don’t like the fashion. You need your testicles to have testosterone in your body and in order to have children later in life, so taking care of them is a necessity.
For everyday dress, briefs or boxer briefs would work best for you.
Response:
I appreciate your very quick response. I think I’m probably more embarrassed about purchasing a jockstrap than I am about fashion. However, you brought up keeping my testicles healthy, and it really would be irresponsible to let my embarrassment affect my future health. I never really considered the possibility that this could affect me having children.
Thank you for your perspective on this matter!