This is an archive article published on April 8, 2025

What exactly are ‘blue balls’ and are they dangerous?

Dr Suri Raju V, senior consultant urologist and medical director at Regal Super Speciality Hospital, Bengaluru, tells indianexpress.com about the science behind this temporary condition

What are blue balls? (Source: Freepik)

3 min readNew DelhiApr 8, 2025 07:30 PM IST First published on: Apr 8, 2025 at 07:30 PM IST

You may have heard the term ‘blue balls’ tossed around, often with a mix of humour and discomfort. But what exactly does it mean, and should you be concerned?

Dr Suri Raju V, senior consultant urologist and medical director at Regal Super Speciality Hospital, Bengaluru, says, “‘Blue balls’ isn’t a medical term, but a slang phrase referring to a temporary condition called epididymal hypertension (EH). It’s that painful, uncomfortable feeling you might experience in your testicles after prolonged sexual arousal without orgasm.”

Here’s the science behind it:

Sexual Arousal: When you’re sexually aroused, blood flow to your genitals increases, causing them to swell.

Venous Restriction: Veins responsible for draining blood from the area become slightly constricted to maintain the erection.

Pressure Buildup: If you don’t ejaculate, the extra blood and fluid get “stuck” for a bit, causing pressure and discomfort in the testicles.

Potential long-term health risks

Dr Suri says, “The good news is that blue balls are generally harmless and pose no long-term health risks. The discomfort usually subsides on its own within minutes to hours.”

However, if the pain is severe, persistent, or accompanied by other symptoms like fever or swelling, it’s crucial to see a doctor. This could indicate a different underlying issue, such as an infection or testicular torsion (a twisted testicle) requiring immediate medical attention.

The good news is that blue balls are generally harmless (Source: Freepik)

Most effective ways to relieve discomfort

There are a few ways to alleviate the discomfort, as mentioned by Dr Suri:

Ejaculation: The most effective way to relieve the pressure is to ejaculate through masturbation or sexual activity.

Distraction: Engaging in a non-sexual activity can help take your mind off the discomfort and allow your body to return to its normal state.

Physical Activity: Exercise can help redirect blood flow away from the genitals and reduce pressure.

Cold Compress: Applying a cold compress to the area may offer some relief by constricting blood vessels and reducing swelling.

Over-the-Counter Pain Relief: If the discomfort is particularly bothersome, over-the-counter pain relievers like ibuprofen can help.

Is ‘blue balls’ a common condition?

Blue balls are a relatively common experience among men, especially during adolescence and young adulthood, states Dr Suri. “However, if you experience it frequently or the pain is severe, it’s worth talking to a healthcare professional. They can rule out any underlying medical conditions and provide personalised advice on managing the discomfort.”

Remember: Blue balls should never be used as an excuse to pressure someone into sexual activity. Consent is key, and everyone can say no at any time.

DISCLAIMER: This article is based on information from the public domain and/or the experts we spoke to. Always consult your health practitioner before starting any routine.