I'm 14 years old and I've recently had aching testicles for a few hours a day maybe twice a month. I thought it might be growing pains, but could it be due to masturbation or because I keep my laptop on my lap constantly? Is it an infection? There are no lumps but it seems to be faintly swelled. I have not injured my testicles. – Luke* It's good that you asked this question! Guys should always take testicular pain seriously, even if there's no obvious injury. Some of the things that cause testicular pain can lead to permanent damage if they go on for too long. Because your pain keeps coming back and there might be some swelling, you should tell a parent and call your doctor's office right away. It's possible that you are having "growing pains," but only a doctor can tell for sure. Your doctor may send you to a urologist, a specialist in conditions that affect a guy's reproductive system. Masturbation will not cause the kind of pain that you describe. Neither will using a laptop — though it's best to sit at a desk or table when using one. If you can't do that, put a pillow between your body and your laptop. *Names have been changed to protect user privacy. Back to Articles Related Articles Testicular Torsion This emergency condition happens when the spermatic cord gets twisted and cuts off blood supply, causing pain and swelling. Find out what to do in this article for teens. Read More Varicocele A varicocele is an enlargement of the veins in the scrotum. Although there is no way to prevent a varicocele, it usually needs no special treatment. Read More Male Reproductive System What makes up a guy's reproductive system and how does it develop? Find the answers to these questions and more. Read More Testicular Exams If you're a guy, you may be wondering why the doctor needs to do a testicular exam. Find out in this article. Read More Testicular Injuries Serious testicular injuries are relatively uncommon, but testicular injury can be painful. Read this to find out what steps you can take to protect yourself from injury. Read More Note: All information is for educational purposes only. For specific medical advice, diagnoses, and treatment, consult your doctor. © 1995-2021 KidsHealth®. All rights reserved. Images provided by The Nemours Foundation, iStock, Getty Images, Veer, Shutterstock, and Clipart.com.