Orchitis and epididymitis

Orchitis is inflammation of the testis, and epididymitis is inflammation of the epididymis, the coiled tube where sperm mature; the two often occur together and are usually caused by a bacterial or viral infection, including sexually transmitted infections or, less commonly, mumps. Symptoms typically include scrotal pain, swelling and sometimes fever, and prompt medical assessment is important both for treatment and to rule out testicular torsion, which needs emergency care. Infection and inflammation can temporarily or, in some cases, permanently reduce sperm production or block sperm transport, so a semen analysis is sometimes checked again after recovery if fertility is a concern. Treatment is directed by a doctor based on the likely cause and is not started empirically without assessment.

Also known as: epididymo-orchitis, testicular infection

Last reviewed: 9 September 2026. Written by the Antega Editorial Team. General information only — always follow the advice of your own clinic, doctor or pharmacist.