“Blue balls” is a colloquial term for epididymal hypertension (epididymis is an anatomical part of your testicles). Contrary to the name, the testicles do not actually turn ‘blue’ but may take on a faint bluish hue due to the increased blood volume.

It refers to aching or painful testicles. Some people may experience it after sexual arousal that does not result in an orgasm/ ejaculation.

Remember that this condition is not dangerous. The symptoms include mild pain, discomfort, aching, heaviness and a faint bluish colour in your testicles, hence the jargon terminology.

Blue Balls Causes and Myths 

Normally, after ejaculation, the blood flows out of the penis, and the penis returns to a flaccid state. However, the extra blood can stay around if you are aroused for a long period and do not get the release. This results in pain and discomfort. However, it can be solved by masturbating or distracting yourself.

Myths

This condition is not dangerous, and the discomfort should pass once the penis becomes flaccid.

Some treatments of blue balls include:

  • Orgasm and ejaculation through masturbation or with a consenting partner
  • Taking a cold shower
  • Mental distractions, like reading a book or watching television
  • Exercising safely as a teenager

Other causes of scrotal pain and discomfort

If you get sudden or severe pain in your testicles or notice your testicles turning blue or purple, immediately seek medical help. It can also be due to testicular torsion. Other reasons could be infections like epididymitis or an injury.