What are the possible causes of pain under the scrotum and anus?

Reviewed by Yoshinori Abe, MD

Internal Medicine

Pain between the scrotum and anus (the perineum) is often caused by nerve compression (such as pudendal neuralgia), prostatitis, urinary tract infections, or pelvic floor muscle dysfunction. Less commonly, it may signal an abscess, hernia, or sexually transmitted infection. A medical evaluation is important to identify the cause and rule out serious conditions.

Because these symptoms can stem from many overlapping causes—ranging from minor irritation to infections requiring prompt treatment—guessing isn't safe or efficient. A free, instant, online symptom check can help you clarify possible causes, understand urgency, and decide whether to see a primary care provider, urologist, or seek urgent care next.

Reviewed for medical accuracy: 07/15/2026

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Explanation

Pain in the area under the scrotum and anus can come from different causes. One possible cause is related to the nerves in that area. The inferior cluneal nerves can be involved in perineal pain, which is the pain in the area between the anus and the scrotum. Problems with these nerves can lead to discomfort or pain in this region.

Another possible cause is an infection. Sometimes, infections in the anorectal and perineal areas can become severe, leading to conditions like necrotizing infections. These are serious infections that need medical attention right away.

Additionally, a perirectal abscess, which is a collection of pus near the rectum, can also cause pain in this area. If you experience pain under the scrotum and anus, you can use Ubie's free AI-powered symptom checker to help identify potential causes and determine the right next steps for your care.

(References)

Darnis B, Robert R, Labat JJ, Riant T, Gaudin C, Hamel A, & Hamel O. (2008). Perineal pain and inferior cluneal nerves: anatomy and .... Surgical and radiologic anatomy : SRA, 18305887.
Bubrick MP, & Hitchcock CR. (1979). Necrotizing anorectal and perineal infections. Surgery, 483175.
Weizberg M, Gillett BP, & Sinert RH. (2008). Penile discharge as a presentation of perirectal abscess. The Journal of emergency medicine, 17976793.

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