Let’s face it—groin pain isn’t a topic most men feel comfortable bringing up. But ignoring it and hoping it goes away isn’t a solution. Paying attention to when the pain started, how severe it is, and exactly where you feel it can provide valuable clues about the cause.Groin pain refers to discomfort in the area where your lower abdomen meets your thighs. While it can stem from various issues, understanding the possible causes can help you take the right steps to address it.
Common Causes of Groin Pain
Here are some of the usual culprits behind groin pain:
1. Muscle, Tendon, or Ligament Strain
Athletes or men active in sports like soccer, hockey, or football often experience strains in the groin area. Pain may appear immediately after an injury or develop gradually over days or weeks. Sometimes, this is referred to as a “sports hernia,” though it’s not a true hernia.
2. Hernia
An inguinal hernia occurs when part of the small intestine pushes through a weak spot in the abdominal wall. It can cause noticeable bulging in the groin, intermittent or constant pain, and should always be checked by a doctor. Untreated hernias can lead to complications like strangulation of the intestine, which is life-threatening and requires emergency surgery.
3. Hip Joint Issues
Injury or disease affecting the hip joint can cause referred pain to the groin area.
Less Common Causes
Sometimes, groin pain is linked to other medical issues, including:
Testicular inflammation or twisting (torsion)
Testicular tumors
Kidney stones
Urinary tract infections
Skin infections
Sexually transmitted infections
Enlarged lymph nodes
Intestinal inflammation
Certain cancers, like testicular or penile
What You Can Do for Groin Pain
If your pain is mild and likely caused by a sports injury or sprain, try these at-home remedies:
Over-the-counter pain relievers: Medications like ibuprofen (Advil) or acetaminophen (Tylenol) can help reduce pain.
Ice therapy: Apply an ice pack or a bag of frozen peas to the sore area for 20–30 minutes, 2–4 times a day, to reduce swelling.
When to Call the Doctor
Some signs indicate it’s time to see a doctor:
Severe or worsening groin pain
Pain that doesn’t improve with rest or self-care after a few days
Testicular pain lasting more than a couple of days
A lump, swelling, or bulge near a testicle
Sudden, intense pain radiating from the lower abdomen to the groin
Blood in the urine
Pain accompanied by fever, chills, or nausea
Don’t ignore these symptoms—early medical evaluation can prevent complications and lead to quicker relief.Taking care of your health starts with paying attention to your body. If you’re dealing with groin pain, don’t wait—listen to what your body is telling you and reach out for help if needed.Dr. David Samadiis the Director of Men’s Health and Urologic Oncology at St. Francis Hospital in Long Island. He’s a renowned and highly successful board certified Urologic Oncologist Expert and Robotic Surgeon in New York City, regarded as one of the leading prostate surgeons in the U.S., with a vast expertise in prostate cancer treatment and Robotic-Assisted Laparoscopic Prostatectomy. Dr. Samadi is a medical contributor to NewsMax TV and is also the author of two books, Prostate Cancer Now What? A Practical Guide to Diagnosis, Treatment, and Recovery and The Ultimate MANual, Dr. Samadi’s Guide to Men’s Health and Wellness, available online both on Amazon and Barnes & Noble. Visit Dr. Samadi’s websites at robotic oncolo gy and prostate cancer 911.
