One Testicle vs. Two: Does Having Just One Testicle Affect Your Performance?

What are testicles?

You might usually refer to them as your ball and balls, testicle and testicles, but the correct terminology is your testis (one) and testes (two). The testicles are oval-shaped glands that sit in a pouch of skin called the scrotum, under the base of the penis.

They’re important parts of the male reproductive system, responsible for making sperm and the testosterone. In the scrotum, testicles are about 2°C cooler than normal core body temperature, which is important for sperm production.

This is why the scrotum contracts and brings the testes closer to the body in cold weather and relaxes in hotter weather.

What should your testicles feel like?

When you feel your testicles through the scrotum, they should feel smooth, without any lumps or bumps. Your testicles should feel firm but not hard if you give them a gentle squeeze.

What shape and size should your testicles be?

Adults’ testicles range in size from about 15 mL to 35 mL (like a small chicken egg). If you’ve noticed a difference between your left and right testicle, remember it’s common for one testicle to be a bit bigger than the other and for one testicle to hang slightly lower.

What can cause testicles to look and feel different?

The testicles and scrotum should not feel painful or uncomfortable when handled gently. There are certain health conditions that can change the way your testicles look and feel.

If you’ve carried out a self-examination and have noticed any of the above changes to your testicles, visit your GP, who will be able to provide you with more information and next steps.

Most people with a penis have two testicles in their scrotum — but some only have one. This is known as monorchism.

Monorchism can be the result of several things. Some people are simply born with just one testicle, while others have one removed for medical reasons.

Read on to learn how having one testicle can impact your fertility, sex drive, and more.