What does it mean if the scrotum is small?
Recently, I just noticed that my scrotum is relatively small; I hadn't paid attention to this before. May I ask, what are the reasons for having a small scrotum?
Doctor's answer (1)
The variation in scrotal size among the normal population is quite extensive, and a smaller scrotum does not necessarily indicate an underlying health problem. Scrotal size can be influenced by multiple factors, and the following are some possible causes:
1. Physiological factors: The size of the scrotum may adjust according to changes in external temperature. When the ambient temperature is cold, the scrotal skin contracts, resulting in a smaller scrotal sac. This is a normal physiological regulatory response. Conversely, when the temperature rises, the scrotal skin relaxes and the scrotum returns to its normal size.
2. Congenital undescended testis: This is a common cause of a small scrotum. In individuals with congenital undescended testis, the testicles fail to descend normally into the scrotum after birth, leading to a relatively smaller scrotal volume.
3. Scrotal trauma: Injury to the scrotal skin, such as burns or lacerations, may also result in a reduced scrotal volume. This is primarily due to the formation of fibrotic scars during the healing process, which can lead to scarring and shrinkage of the scrotum.
4. Genetic factors: Variations in scrotal size due to individual differences typically do not affect reproductive health.
