What should I do if I find a painful lump between my scrotum and anus?

A painful lump between the scrotum and anus (the perineum) may indicate several conditions, ranging from benign to more serious. Common causes include:

• Perianal or perineal abscess – a pus-filled infection requiring prompt treatment
• Pilonidal cyst – an infected cyst near the tailbone or perineum
• Sebaceous or epidermoid cyst – a blocked oil gland, usually benign
• Folliculitis or boil – an infected hair follicle
• Prostatitis – inflammation of the prostate that can cause perineal pain and swelling
• Hernia – rare in this location but possible

Because the perineum contains nerves, glands, and structures close to the urinary and reproductive systems, any painful lump in this area should be evaluated by a healthcare provider to rule out infection or other concerns.

Since causes range from a minor cyst to an infection needing urgent care, guessing isn't safe—but neither is panic. A free, private, AI-powered symptom check takes about 3 minutes, matches your symptoms against thousands of possible conditions, and helps you decide whether to self-monitor, see a primary provider, or seek urgent care. It's a smart first step before your doctor's visit.

Reviewed for medical accuracy: 07/15/2026